Widespread Fear for Local Pubs and High Streets
A new opinion poll has uncovered deep-seated anxiety across Britain about the future of local communities, with more than half the population fearing their neighbourhood pubs will be forced to close. The survey, conducted by Savanta, indicates that 53 per cent of Brits are specifically concerned that their local pub, or 'boozer', will shut down as a direct consequence of Chancellor Rachel Reeves' increases to National Insurance.
High Street Havoc: The Poll's Stark Findings
The worries extend far beyond the pub trade, painting a bleak picture for the entire British high street. The research found that an even larger majority, 66 per cent, expressed concern for the survival of their local independent shops. This follows a year of significant financial difficulty for small businesses.
Furthermore, the poll revealed that:
- 61 per cent fear their local restaurants and cafes will close.
- Nearly half, 48 per cent, are concerned for high street hairdressers.
These fears are substantiated by estimates from the British Beer and Pub Association, which projects that 378 pubs will close this year across England, Wales, and Scotland. This equates to more than one pub closing every single day, with an estimated loss of 5,600 jobs.
Regional Impact and Political Demands
The concern is not evenly spread across the country. The Savanta poll identified the South West as the region with the highest level of anxiety, where 62 per cent of residents worry about their locals shutting. This was closely followed by the West Midlands, where 56 per cent shared the same fear.
The findings emerge amidst growing apprehension that Chancellor Reeves' upcoming Budget will deliver another heavy blow to high streets. The Liberal Democrats, who commissioned the poll, are urging the government to take immediate action. They are calling for an emergency 5 per cent VAT cut for the hospitality sector, which they describe as a £7.5 billion 'life raft' for Britain's pubs and restaurants.
Daisy Cooper, the Lib Dems' Treasury spokesperson, stated: 'Britain is braced for another disastrous Budget that could kick our local high streets while they're down. No wonder so many are concerned for the future of their local high street, worried that much-loved local businesses will have to shut up shop.'
The sector is still recovering from the Chancellor's first Budget last year, which introduced a 'double whammy' of increased costs. This involved hiking employers' National Insurance contributions while simultaneously unveiling an above-inflation increase in the minimum wage, with both measures taking effect on 1 April this year.
The Savanta survey interviewed 2,019 UK adults online between 31 October and 3 November.
