England, Wales Launch Pub and Hotel Rates Review After 161 Pub Closures

3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 23

Jerry Schurder will lead a Treasury review of how business rates are valued for pubs and hotels in England and Wales, with findings due by March 2027 ahead of the next revaluation in 2029.
161 pubs closed in the first quarter across England, Scotland and Wales, costing about 2,400 jobs, as the sector blamed rising rates alongside higher National Insurance and minimum-wage costs.
Pub groups say the system overcharges them because many venues are assessed on Fair Maintainable Trade, linking rates bills to turnover rather than mainly to floor area as in retail.
The review follows a 15% rates cut earlier in 2026 and a further 20% discount for pubs, social clubs and live music venues in England from April, though eligibility details are still pending.
Business groups broadly welcomed Schurder's appointment but pressed for wider reform, while opposition parties said the government had moved too slowly to help hospitality.