Carla Lockhart said:
“These cafés are not just businesses; they are the heartbeat of our town centres, offering a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors. Their closures are a devastating loss to our community, and if immediate action isn’t taken by both Westminster and Stormont, we risk seeing more businesses disappear,” said Ms Lockhart.
She expressed her personal sadness over the closures, knowing the owners and their dedication to building their businesses. “I have seen firsthand the time, effort, and commitment these owners have invested. They have created jobs, supported our local economy, and provided high-quality food and service to our community. To see them forced to close their doors is truly heartbreaking.”
Ahead of the upcoming UK Government budget, Ms Lockhart is urging the Chancellor to reduce VAT for hospitality businesses and reassess the crushing business rates that are driving many to closure.
“Hospitality businesses need tailored support, and they need it now. Without intervention, more closures are inevitable,” she added.
Ms Lockhart has also written to the Economy Minister in the Northern Ireland Executive, urging him to consider an urgent local intervention to provide additional support. She emphasized that coordinated action from both the Government and Economy Minister is essential to preventing further damage to the sector.
“I am urging the Government to take immediate steps—reduce VAT for hospitality businesses and address the unsustainable business rates that are crippling them. We cannot afford to lose more of the places that breathe life into our town centres.”