Welsh pubs need more help with business rates to help save them from extinction – CAMRA

For more information, contact press on 01727 337 863 or email press@camra.org.uk  

CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, has called on the Welsh Government to use its forthcoming Budget to offer further help for pubs burdened by Business Rates.

The Campaign wants to see a specific fund to lower bills for pubs, as already operates in England, to help reduce the rate of pub closures.

The comment comes as the Senedd today (10th December) approved plans for increases in Business Rates from April 2020.

The Non-Domestic Rating (Multiplier) (Wales) Order 2019 was debated and approved by Assembly Members this afternoon. It means that increases in Business Rates will go up in line with the Consumer Prices Index, instead of the Retail Prices Index. This should mean a smaller increase in costs for businesses.

CAMRA National Director Nik Antona said: “Pubs are at the heart of local communities across Wales. They act as important social hubs – helping to tackle loneliness and social isolation. Yet many are suffering from unfair business rates which are contributing to well-loved locals being forced to close.

“Whilst any reduction in costs for businesses will be welcome, moves like this are only a sticking plaster.

“We need a complete review of the business rates system in Wales to help give pubs a fair deal and save them from closure. In the meantime, CAMRA would like to see a permanent scheme to cut Business Rates bills for pubs.”