A think tank has warned that a ‘counterproductive regulatory and tax landscape’ threatens the future of local pubs.
In a report issued today at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, Localis calls for the creation of a government taskforce to review business rates and excise duty.
The think tank’s report, titled Inn-Valuable 2: unlocking the socio-economic potential of our nation’s pubs, urges the Government to extend business rates relief for hospitality by three years in line with the spending review period to give long-term certainty to pub landlords.
The proposed taskforce should also examine planning policies to do more to support the night-time economy.
Report author and Localis head of research, Joe Fyans, said: ‘Pubs are more than just businesses; they are the heart and soul of our communities. To ensure their long-term survival, we need a policy framework that recognizes their value and supports their continued success.’
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: ‘This research cements what people up and down the country know and believe – that the pub is a home from home, the beating heart of our towns and villages, and offers a warm welcome to people from all walks of life.’
Check out: Why the planning system is failing our pubs.
