BBPA welcomes Welsh Government extension of Small Business Rate Relief

The trade association said it will avoid a massive £3.4 million bill for thousands of pubs across Wales – as campaigned for by the industry’s Better Rates for Pubs​ campaign.

The decision means that as for businesses in England, increases in Business Rates will be capped to 2%.

Support​

The BBPA has also welcomed the commitment from the Welsh Economy Minister, Edwina Hart AM, for the introduction of a fund to support small businesses affected by the revaluation delay to 2017.

The BBPA is also preparing to contribute to the review, by Professor Brian Morgan, of the future of business rates in Wales when the powers are further devolved to the Welsh Government.

Better Rates for Pubs​

The joint industry Better Rates for Pubs campaign, led by the BBPA and supported by the Publican's Morning Advertiser has called for the extension of SBRR, alongside measures to improve the flexibility of the rating system for pubs and the promotion of rural rate relief. 

Brigid Simmonds BBPA chief executive, said:  “We welcome this decision by the Welsh Government as positive progress for pubs in Wales. The introduction of a fund to support small businesses affected by the delay to 2017 of the national revaluation is also welcome. However, pubs that feel they have a case for revaluation should still follow the appeals process.

“We also welcome the opportunity to contribute to Professor Brian Morgan’s review of small business rates in Wales as it progresses.”