Eastbourne pub welcomes Andy Burnham’s business rates cut - but 'significant' issues remain
A pub in Eastbourne has welcomed Andy Burnham’s new policy to cut business rates by 20% – but warned that ‘significant’ issues still remained in the hospitality industry.
The Hurst Arms, in Willingdon Road, was reacting to the new Prime Minister’s move to support pubs, clubs and live music venues across England from April, 2027.
The government claim the cuts will save pubs ‘an estimated £1,100 in the next financial year’ and that it will be funded by ‘reviewing reliefs for businesses that do not make a positive contribution to local communities, such as vape shops’ (GOV.UK).
It comes after Mr Burnham introduced two other policies in his first week in office – the return of the £2 single bus fare cap from January, 2027, and a VAT cut to electricity bills from October 1, 2026.
A spokesperson for The Hurst Arms said: “It’s encouraging to see the government recognising that pubs have had a tough time.
“A cut in business rates is definitely welcome, and every little bit helps, but we are still dealing with significant increases in other costs such as higher wages, energy bills and supplier costs.
“At The Hurst Arms, any money we save goes straight back into the pub and helping us look after our customers.
“We’re proud to be the heart of the local community, and anything that helps keep pubs like ours going has to be a good thing.”