Business

Business Rates Relief cut ‘spells disaster’ for Welsh hospitality sector

Published

2 years ago

April 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE ANNOUNCEMENT was made last year, but this week the reality kicked in.

The Business Rates Relief has been cut in Wales has kicked in and the hoped-for u-turn has not materialised.

The substantial reduction in business rates relief for hospitality firms has stirred significant concern amongst business owners and industry representatives across Wales.

Effective from 1 April 2024, the relief has been cut from 75% to 40%, accompanied by a 5% rise in rates. This decision is part of a broader strategy to redistribute financial resources to support essential services, particularly the health service, amidst ongoing fiscal pressures.

Finance Minister Rebecca Evans has acknowledged the difficulty of these decisions, emphasising the government’s commitment to managing a tight budget in challenging times. However, the reduction in support has sparked fears of financial strain and potential closures within the hospitality sector.

Industry Response

The announcement has been met with dismay by industry leaders, who warn of the competitive disadvantage Welsh businesses will now face. David Chapman, Executive Director of UKHospitality Cymru, highlighted the stark contrast with England, where businesses continue to benefit from the 75% relief. “This disparity will undoubtedly place Welsh businesses at a competitive disadvantage, particularly small businesses that will see their counterparts across the border enjoying frozen rates,” Chapman said.

A typical pub or restaurant in Wales is now expected to pay £6,400 more than one in England, a disparity that could have severe implications for the viability of many establishments.

Budget Cuts and Tourism

The reduction in business rates relief is not the only financial challenge facing the Welsh hospitality and tourism sectors. The Welsh Government’s budget for 2024/25 also includes a £16m cut in funding for tourism, culture, and sport. Given the strategic importance of tourism to Wales’ economy and cultural identity, this decision has been met with criticism. The sector, already facing intense economic challenges, views the cut as a significant setback that could undermine long-term confidence and investment.

Political and Community Reaction

Stephen Crabb MP, pictured here with restaurant owner Dan Mills, has been vocal in his efforts to highlight the challenges facing the hospitality sector, especially in regions like Pembrokeshire that rely heavily on tourism. Crabb has been engaging with local business owners, bringing attention to the sector’s struggles at both the local and national levels. “The upcoming season should be a time of optimism, but the reality is far different due to these financial challenges,” Crabb stated, emphasising the need for greater support to ensure the sector’s competitiveness and sustainability.

The Welsh Conservatives have strongly criticised the Welsh Government’s decision, with Andrew RT Davies MS, the party’s leader, and Tom Giffard MS, Shadow Minister for Tourism, both calling for a reevaluation of the relief cut. They argue that the reduction could be catastrophic for businesses already contending with the post-pandemic economic landscape, urging the government to maintain competitive rates relief.

Calls for Reconsideration

Amid growing concerns, FOR Cardiff, representing businesses within the city, has issued an open letter to the Minister for Finance, urging the Welsh Government to reconsider its approach to business rates relief. The organisation highlights the critical role of high street businesses in the everyday economy and warns of the potential for widespread closures without adequate support. Carolyn Brownell, FOR Cardiff’s Executive Director, called for a more gradual approach to tapering relief, suggesting that some of the government’s capital funds could be redirected to provide targeted support where it’s most needed.

Looking Forward

As the hospitality sector braces for the impact of these financial changes, the debate continues over the best path forward. Industry leaders, political figures, and community representatives are calling for a balanced approach that supports businesses through these challenging times while addressing the fiscal needs of the country.

The coming months will be crucial in determining the long-term effects of these decisions on Wales’ hospitality sector and broader economy.

How many pubs and restaurants will survive?

Business

Holiday lets allowed to stay at Narberth dairy farm

Published

3 minutes ago

December 5, 2025

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A CALL for a Pembrokeshire dairy farm to keep two “alternative” holiday pods sited without permission as a way of diversifying in an uncertain industry has been given the go-ahead.

In an application recommended for approval at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Vaynor Farm Ltd sought retrospective permission for the siting of two self-catering holiday accommodation pods at The Cart House, Vaynor Farm, Bethesda, near Narberth as part of a farm diversification enterprise.

It was before committee members as it was recommended for delegated conditional approval by senior officers despite being against the development plan.

Previous retrospective schemes, for two self-catering pods along with an application to retain a shepherd hut accommodation pod at another farm, a part of the Vaynor Farm farm enterprise, were refused in 2023 and 2025, the latter due to “an unjustified and harmful impact on the character and appearance of the open countryside”.

Detailing the current application, an officer report for members said the pods: Vaynor Farm Pod within the garden of The Cart House, and The Paddock Pod, on the edge of a small paddock, were constructed off-site and have been transported to their current locations, with external decking, hot tubs, a barbecue area and car parking provided for each pod.

It added: “A business plan has been submitted with the application, which explains that due to uncertainties associated with dairy farming, the applicant has sought to diversify the farm enterprise to incorporate tourism accommodation.

“The application makes the case that the proposed development represents farm diversification. It is acknowledged that the development has resulted in the provision of an alternative type of holiday accommodation for which it has been demonstrated there is a demand, contributing to the diversity and quality of accommodation available within the county and supporting an existing farm business, with consequent economic and social benefits.

“Evidence has been provided that demonstrates the extent to which the pods have provided income which has been used to support the farm business.

“However, officers consider that should planning permission be granted, a [planning obligation] will be necessary to ensure that the accommodation pods continue to support the farm business and are not separated from it at some future point in time.”

Delegated conditional approval limiting the use and occupation of the self-catering accommodation pods to short term holiday use only was moved by Cllr Brian Hall and unanimously backed by committee members.

Business

First wind turbine components arrive as LNG project moves ahead

Published

11 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE FIRST ship carrying major components for Dragon LNG’s new onshore wind turbines docked at Pembroke Port last week, marking the start of physical deliveries for the multi-million-pound renewable energy project.

The Maltese-registered general cargo vessel Peak Bergen berthed at Pembroke Dock on Wednesday 26^th November, bringing tower sections and other heavy components for the three Enercon turbines that will eventually stand on land adjacent to the existing gas terminal at Waterston.

A second vessel, the Irish-flagged Wilson Flex IV, has arrived in Pembroke Port today (Thursday) carrying the giant rotor blades.

The deliveries follow a successful trial convoy on 25 November, when police-escorted low-loader trailers carried dummy loads along the planned route from the port through Pembroke, past Waterloo roundabout and up the A477 to the Dragon LNG site.

Dragon LNG’s Community and Social Performance Officer, Lynette Round, confirmed the latest movements in emails to the Herald.

“The Peak Bergen arrived last week with the first components,” she said. “We are expecting another delivery tomorrow (Thursday) onboard the Wilson Flex IV. This will be blades and is currently showing an ETA of approximately 03:30.”

The £14.3 million project, approved by Welsh Ministers last year, will see three turbines with a combined capacity of up to 13.5 MW erected on company-owned land next to the LNG terminal. Once operational – expected in late 2026 – they will generate enough electricity to power the entire site, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

The Weather conditions were favourable for the arrival of the Wilson Flex IV, which was tracking south of the Smalls at midnight.

The abnormal-load convoys carrying the components from the port to Waterston are expected to begin early next year, subject to final police and highway approvals.

A community benefit fund linked to the project will provide for residents in nearby Waterston, Llanstadwell and Neyland.

Further updates will be issued by Dragon LNG as the Port of Milford Haven as the delivery programme continues.

Photo: Martin Cavaney

Business

Cardiff Airport announces special Air France flights for Six Nations

Published

15 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Direct services to Paris-Charles de Gaulle launched to cater for Welsh supporters, French fans and couples planning a Valentine’s getaway

CARDIFF AIRPORT and Air France have unveiled a series of special direct flights between Cardiff (CWL) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) scheduled for February 2026.

Timed to coincide with two major dates — the Wales v France Six Nations clash on Saturday 15 February and Valentine’s weekend — the flights are designed to offer supporters and holidaymakers an easy link between the two capitals.

For travelling French rugby fans, the services provide a straightforward route into Wales ahead of match day at the Principality Stadium, when Cardiff will once again be transformed by the colour, noise and passion that accompanies one of the tournament’s most eagerly awaited fixtures.

For Welsh passengers, the additional flights offer a seamless escape to Paris for Valentine’s Day, as well as opportunities for short breaks and onward travel via Air France’s wider global network.

Cardiff Airport CEO Jon Bridge said: “We’re thrilled to offer direct flights to such a vibrant and exciting city for Valentine’s weekend. Cardiff Airport is expanding its reach and giving customers fantastic travel options. We’ve listened to passenger demand and are delighted to make this opportunity possible. There is more to come from Cardiff.”

Tickets are already on sale via the Air France website and through travel agents.

Special flight schedule

Paris (CDG) → Cardiff (CWL):