Richmond Council calls on Government to extend support to wider hospitality sector

We have welcomed the government’s reversal of its decision to raise business rates for pubs throughout the borough. However, we remain concerned about the apparent lack of provision for other parts of the hospitality sector such as independent cafes, small hotels, and restaurants. 

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: “The hospitality sector makes a significant contribution to Richmond’s economy and whilst we welcome the government’s U-turn, we are concerned about the wider hospitality sector."

The government has announced pubs and live-music venues will get a 15% cut to new business rates bills from April followed by a two-year real-terms freeze, as well as a review into the method used to value them for business rates.

Councillor Phil Giesler, Business and Growth Lead Member for Richmond Council, said: “Our hospitality businesses have had a torrid last few years, from Covid to National Insurance increases.

"The industry is facing rising bills across the board. The Government must provide urgent support for hospitality and, crucially, deliver serious business rates reform. Above all, the sector needs a new approach that offers consistency and clarity, so businesses can plan with confidence for the future.”

Councillor Roberts added: “Whilst the latest move from the Government is welcome it doesn’t benefit independent cafes, small hotels or restaurants which are the life and blood of Richmond’s economy.

“Not only do residents value our fantastic hospitality businesses, but they are also key to creating vibrant town centres that we know attract visitors and investment to the Borough.

“Richmond Council calls on the Government to recognise the plight of hospitality businesses across the Borough. We want to ensure that the recognition given to pubs is extended to similarly impacted businesses. We need more to be done. This is not only a pub crisis.”