Whether you are starting a business or you have been running a business for many years, this page will guide you to find help on specific or general issues.

Business Link can offer advice and support to any type of business, whether you're starting up, already running a business or looking to grow and develop. It is a free service available online and through local advisers. Practical help to get your business in the right shape for the year ahead can be found through the real help scheme.

The HM Revenue & Customs website has information especially for people starting up their own business.

There is also a helpline run by HMRC offering advice on tax and National Insurance issues to newly self employed people: 08459 15 45 15. Lines are open from 8am - 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am - 4pm Saturday and Sunday.

Planning retains a balance between the need for a variety of new developments and the need to protect the environment and tries to ensure all development is environmentally sustainable.

Construction methods need to comply with the Building Regulations for which there is a separate set of approvals. More information can be found on our Building Control page.

You do not usually need planning permission just to work from home but certain circumstances require it.

Advice and guidance on planning permission can be found on our Planning pages.

Many businesses require a licence e.g. hairdressers, pet shops and places of public entertainment. For appropriate advice and guidance covering all aspects of trading, licensing and public health legislation contact see Licensing pages.

Trading Standards and Consumer Services is a strategic Local Authority service contributing to the well-being of the local and business community through its enforcement activities and advisory services.

More information can be found on our Trading Standards pages.

Please visit our Business Rates pages for more information.

NetRegs provides free environmental guidance for small and medium-sized businesses in the UK. They aim to help you to understand what you need to do to comply with environmental law and protect the environment and may even help you to save money by showing you ways to use your resources more efficiently.