REACTIVE STATEMENT FROM HU ON MINISTER OF FINANCES STATEMENT ON RATES REVIEW

18 November 2025

Proposals on rates reform welcome, but more needs done!

Colin Neill, Chief Executive, Hospitality Ulster, said:

 "Hospitality Ulster welcomes today’s announcement from the Minister of Finance, particularly the increase in Small Business Rates Relief and the introduction of the Business Growth Accelerator, that would see rate increases delayed for a period of one of two years after capital investment in the property (time period not yet confirmed), both of which we have lobbied for. These are small but positive steps in the right direction that will provide some breathing room for hospitality businesses that continue to face mounting pressures.

"We are also encouraged to see a commitment to take cognisance of the outcome of the Scottish review of the receipts and expenditure model (valuation based on turnover not square foot) used to estimate rateable values for pubs and hotels. For years, Hospitality Ulster has campaigned for a fairer valuation formula as the current model is grossly unfair and is need of urgent reform.

“However, it must be said plainly: a complete and fundamental reform of the property business rates system is urgently needed. The current model is outdated and continues to place an unfair burden on hospitality operators who are working hard to keep their doors open and staff employed.

"Looking ahead to the upcoming UK Budget, we call on the Executive to guarantee that any Barnett consequential funding generated by hospitality-focused measures is directed specifically toward relief for Northern Ireland’s hospitality sector. Businesses cannot afford for this support to be diluted or diverted. It must reach those who need it most."