Bridgwater MP Sir Ashley Fox has visited the Globe Inn in North Petherton to meet the team and discuss the growing pressures facing small, community pubs.
Admiral Taverns, who operate traditional community pubs across England, have set out clear concerns about the impact of rising business rates on smaller venues. They explain that “Business Rates are determined by turnover, and with inflation increasing turnover through higher pint prices, rateable values will inevitably rise even though profits are falling.” They warn that this could leave many small pubs facing new cost pressures at a time when profits have already been eroded by increases in energy, staffing and other operating costs.
Speaking after the visit, Ashley Fox said, “Pubs like the Globe Inn sit at the heart of our communities. They provide jobs, support the local economy and offer a place for people to come together. But many of our smaller pubs are under serious strain as rising costs continue to mount under this Labour government. It is important that they are not hit with additional burdens that push them closer to the edge.”
Ashley Fox highlighted the Conservative plan to support pubs with significant tax reform saying, “The Conservatives have a plan to back community pubs like the Globe Inn. By abolishing business rates for high street shops and pubs, we would lift thousands of small businesses out of a tax that is dragging them down. In the Bridgwater constituency alone, 323 pubs, shops and restaurants would benefit, with the average pub saving around £9,600. That is real support that helps keep doors open and protect local jobs.”
Ashley Fox encouraged people to support their local pubs, particularly during the Christmas period, saying that every visit helps keep a vital community asset alive.
