UKHospitality Cymru has backed Welsh Government proposals to ensure businesses are not inadvertently penalised for improving their venues or investing in renewables.
In responses to consultations on renewable energy rates support and improvement rates relief, the leading trade body has said the plans will incentivise hospitality businesses to invest in their venues to improve its carbon footprint or improve the customer experience.
David Chapman, UKHospitality Cymru Executive Director, applauded the plans as a positive demonstration of Welsh Government backing business.
He also urged them to go even further by making the measures permanent and to consider other areas, including desperately needed business rates reform, which could support the industry as it continues to rebuild.
“Hospitality businesses in Wales are keen to make improvements to their venues, whether it’s improving existing buildings or investing in new technology to help them become more sustainable,” Mr Chapman said.
“Incentivising business to make improvements to their venues is a win-win. Not only does it improve efficiency and sustainability but it can help attract more people to a local area, support high-streets and drive business investment.
“I’m pleased the Welsh Government has recognised the benefits these exemptions and reliefs can deliver. Not only is it a common-sense approach to encourage investment but it’s a clear signal to business that their concerns are being heard.
“I’d encourage the Government to go a few steps further by making the renewables proposal permanent and extending the proposed relief period for buildings improvements from 12 months to 24 months, in addition to considering a radical rethink of business rates reform.”
