Pub closure rates slow

The number of permanent pub closures across England and Wales has halved in the first six months of 2019 compared to the previous half-year, analysis of government data has revealed.

A total of 235 pubs closed in the UK in the six months to June, according to new analysis by Altus Group, an average of around forty pubs each month called last orders in the UK over the first half of the year.

There are currently more than 41,000 pubs operating in England and Wales. The rate of decline currently stands at around nine per week, compared to just over 35 in the previous period.

Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UK Hospitality, said it is positive that the rate of closures has slowed down but too many pubs have already been forced to close. “Cost pressures, principally extortionate business rates, are pushing too many pubs to the margins and high streets are being squeezed. We have heard various members of the Government say they wish to stimulate investment in high streets and support businesses.

“If they are serious, then they need to tackle these increasing costs – otherwise, more pubs will close.”

Alex Probyn, President of expert services at Altus, said that Government measures to support the future of pubs may be having an impact. “Since legislative changes in May 2017, pubs looking to respond to the changing market have been able to expand their food offer without the cost and uncertainty of having to apply for planning permission.”

“Meanwhile, local communities, through the community right to bid provisions, now have a say on the future of their local by the listing of a public house as an asset of community value, which results in an automatic removal of the permitted development rights for its demolition or change of use.”