The ALMR today welcomed the Government’s guidance to local authorities to expedite payments of business rates reliefs to licensed hospitality operators, and to communicate to recipients when and how they will be paid.
The notice, issued by the Department for Communities and Local Government, advises councils on many types of reliefs, including the pub-specific one that was awarded in March’s Budget, after extended and intensive lobbying spearheaded by the ALMR.
CEO Kate Nicholls said: “We very much welcome the resumption of the political machine, and the DCLG’s clear and positive message for reliefs to be paid promptly.”
“The general election campaign imposed a political vacuum during which many pub and restaurant operators laboured on under the shadow of hugely increased business rates costs, with no sign of when assistance would emerge. Alongside the many other financial and regulatory burdens they face, the situation was becoming critical for many.
“Despite this money having been available since April, too many local authorities faltered when companies were suffering and needed assistance and information. At long last, direction and a sense of urgency has been provided.
“This call for action gives some succour to those pubs and restaurants suffering most acutely, but there remains in place a flawed business rates system. As our letter to the Secretary of State for DCLG earlier this week made quite clear, we shall continue to work with Government and redouble our efforts to lobby for rates reform.”