The government is expected to announce changes in the coming days to the calculation of business rates for pubs in England, resulting in smaller increases to their bills. Treasury officials acknowledged the financial strain on pubs following significant rises in the rateable value of their premises. The move follows pressure from landlords and industry groups, including a protest where more than 1,000 pubs banned Labour MPs.
The planned changes will apply specifically to pubs, excluding the broader hospitality sector. In addition to the business rate adjustments, the Treasury is considering relaxing licensing rules to permit extended opening hours and expanded pavement areas for outdoor drinking.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves previously scaled back business rate discounts, which had been in effect since the pandemic, from 75% to 40% in her November Budget. She also announced the complete removal of these discounts starting in April. This reduction, coupled with substantial upward adjustments to the rateable values of pub properties, created financial challenges for landlords.
The government's decision to re-evaluate the business rate calculation for pubs reflects concerns about the potential impact on the industry. Industry groups have warned that the combined effect of reduced discounts and increased rateable values could lead to pub closures and job losses. The exact details of the revised calculation method are expected to be released in the coming days.
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