Council Leader John Kent has said he has "doubts" over central government news that Thurrock will be able to keep all of its business rates.

The comments came after central government announced it would be letting councils keep 100 per cent of its business rates.

Mr Kent said he would 'welcome' the news, but "somehow, doubted it would happen."

The news means the council could potentially see its business rates income double - and the council's income boosted by £55 million a year.

Meanwhile, Thurrock Conservatives hailed the news as "the most exciting bit of news to complement and enhance Thurrock's regeneration agenda for years." 

A spokesman for the group said it was an opportunity to make Thurrock 'self-reliant' and reinvigorate Thurrock's High Streets.

Mr Kent said: "Thurrock, with its ambitious programme of regeneration, its agenda for growth, and its thriving business sector would very much welcome holding on to the millions we have to give to government every year.

"Let that money stay here and benefit local people and businesses. I have been saying for five years the government should allow local councils to keep the business rates they collect.

"Sadly, I somehow doubt, this will happen.”

Mr Kent added: “If the government is now listening, that’s great, but the devil is in the detail and that detail is not yet available.

Other questions Mr Kent raised included how the money would be divided between unitary authorities such as Thurrock, and two-tier council systems. 

He added: “And of course, there’s the question of setting the rate. The government talks of being able to reduce the business rates, but only elected mayors in big cities will be able to increase them. Is that right and fair?"

A spokesman for the Conservatives said: "With Thurrock now being firmly open for business, we have a genuine opportunity to be self-reliant on sustainable incomes made by tax receipts in our own borders.

"Hopefully we will have the discretion to potentially reduce business rates for smaller businesses in Thurrock, and get people shopping local once more."

Both groups agreed the 'devil was in the detail'.

Business rates explained:

Councils now give 75 per cent of their business rates back to central government - and then get back 25 per cent in a revenue grant.

For Thurrock Council, this means they currently keep £30 million out of £110 million, and get a further £25 million back in a revenue grant.

If the new policy goes ahead, instead of getting only £55 million a year, the council will get to keep all £110 million.