Pubs welcome government U-turn on business rates but warn more help needed

Independent.co reports the government is set to U-turn on plans to scrap business rate relief for the hospitality industry, a decision welcomed by pub landlords across the UK. At the Budget the chancellor announced plans to scale back pandemic-era discounts from 75 per cent to 40 per cent and said there would be no discount at all from April, prompting warnings that many pubs were on the brink of closure.

Landlords described the prospect of restored relief as “a huge relief” but said it may not be enough. Dawn Hopkins, who runs the Rose Inn in Norwich, said re-evaluations of business rates have been “astronomical” in many places. Chris Welch, whose Fishnet Tavern faces an extra £4,000 a year in rates after the Budget, said VAT cuts and other tax reliefs are also needed.

Tom McNeeney called the U-turn “a huge start in righting the wrongs,” while Fiona Hornsby warned higher ratable values must be addressed and said, “An open pub pays tax - a closed one doesn’t.” Alex Greig said any reversal would be “helpful” but “nowhere near enough.” Ministers have told the outlet the chancellor is expected to extend relief to help landlords with rising bills rather than end cash support in April.

Key Topics

Business, Business Rates, Hospitality Industry, Uk Budget, Pubs, Vat