Enterprise zones were first launched in 2011 and are specific geographic areas that provide various tax breaks and government support. Businesses that set-up in enterprise zones can benefit from up to 100% first year capital allowances for qualifying investments in plant and machinery.

This benefit was expected to have ended on 31 March 2020. However, the government announced at Spring Budget 2020, that these capital allowances will remain available for expenditure incurred in relation to all areas, whenever designated, until at least 31 March 2021.

The enterprise zone must also be located within an Assisted Area which is specified within Section 1 Industrial Development Act 1982 or Northern Ireland. The qualifying expenditure must be incurred within a period of 8 years beginning with the date the specific area is treated as having been designated.