Easton welcomes Minister’s climbdown on hospitality rates hikes — but warns suspension is not enough
Alex Easton MP has welcomed the Finance Minister’s decision to pause the process that would have resulted in large business rate increases for many hospitality businesses, but has warned that a suspension is only short-term relief and does not provide the stability local venues need.
Mr Easton said business owners across North Down have spoken of real relief following the announcement that the draft revaluation process has been paused, after it became clear the scale of proposed increases would have been devastating for pubs, restaurants, cafés and hotels.
“This is a clear climbdown by the Minister — and it is the right decision,” Mr Easton said.
“I had written directly to the Minister calling for immediate action to stop these punishing rates hikes and to prevent more businesses closing in North Down. I am pleased that pressure has been applied and that the Minister has now moved to pause this process.”
Mr Easton said the draft property revaluations published by Land and Property Services would have seen many businesses facing hugely increased rates bills from 1 April, placing jobs and town centres at risk.
“Hospitality is already under huge pressure and these increases risked being the final nail in the coffin for venues that support employment, tourism and community life across our city and villages,” he said.
However, Mr Easton warned that the Minister’s announcement only suspends the threat — it does not remove it.
“Let’s be clear: this is only suspended. A pause does not give stability. It gives short relief. Businesses need certainty to plan, invest, and keep people in work. They cannot operate with the same threat hanging over them in a few months’ time.”
Mr Easton said the revaluation must be withdrawn and replaced with a fairer approach that protects hospitality.
“This should be withdrawn, not parked. The Minister must now act decisively to ensure hospitality businesses are not hit with sudden, unaffordable rates shocks. If we are serious about helping local businesses thrive, then we must give them long-term stability — not temporary breathing space.”
Mr Easton added: “Local businesses are the backbone of our economy. They deserve support, not uncertainty. I will continue pressing the Minister to go further and to deliver a permanent solution that prevents further closures.”
Alex Easton MP
Member of Parliament for North Down
