Ipswich pubs and hotels urged to have say on business rates

Why it matters: Businesses and industry representatives have raised concerns about significant changes in valuations and sizeable increases for some properties after the 2026 revaluation, and the review is their chance to be heard.

The details: Led by rating adviser Jerry Schurder, the review will consider whether current valuation methods remain appropriate, reflect real market conditions and are applied consistently and transparently.

The call for evidence is open to pub and hotel operators, industry bodies, valuation professionals and other interested stakeholders, who are invited to share their experiences and suggest improvements.

In particular, the review is seeking evidence on:

• How rents are determined in the market
• How trading performance is reflected in rents
• Whether current valuation approaches accurately reflect the realities facing businesses

How to have your say:

• Email your response to PubsHotels.Valuation@hmtreasury.gov.uk
• The call for evidence closes at 23:59 on Friday, 16 October 2026
• Further information is available on the government website

What they're saying: Ipswich MP Jack Abbott said: "Pubs and hotels are a critical part of Ipswich's local economy and community life. They provide jobs, bring people together and help make our town a better place to live and visit."

"I do not believe the system that is used to calculate their business rates is fair, transparent and reflects the realities businesses face, and I have pushed the Government for some time to launch a review and ensure that the system is fit for purpose."

He added: "Now, local businesses have an opportunity to share their experiences and help identify where the current approach could be improved, updated and reformed.

"I would strongly encourage pub and hotel owners in Ipswich to have their say before the deadline on Friday."

The bigger picture: The review follows other support for the sector:

• A 15% business rates relief for eligible pubs and live music venues for the 2026/27 financial year, with bills frozen in real terms for 2027/28 and 2028/29
• A further 20% business rates discount for pubs, clubs and live music venues from April 2027

What's next: The review will make recommendations on potential improvements to the valuation methodology ahead of the next revaluation. It will not reconsider the overall level of business rates liabilities.

The bottom line: Pubs and hotels play a key role in Ipswich’s economy and community life, and this review gives their owners a direct say in how the business rates system treats them.

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