Ahead of next week’s local elections, due to take place across the country next month, UKH has released a manifesto setting out how the decisions of local authorities are “crucial” to the survival of businesses.
UKH chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “A significant number of the practical, day-to-day issues that hospitality businesses face start and end with the local authority.
Critical factors
“Absolutely critical factors to the success of a venue, like licensing and planning, are in the hands of councils and their approach to these important issues are vital to the sector’s future."
Sent to council leaders, local authority CEOs and candidates across the country, the local elections manifesto called for a pro-growth approach to licensing applications and a more streamlined method to planning applications.
Moreover, UKH’s manifesto advocated for a more efficient and low cost public transport system, discretionary business rates relief, and the active promotion of hospitality jobs through local authority channels as well as an avoidance of “excessive” regulations, such as late-night levies.
Nicholls added the positive impact hospitality can have on local areas has been seen "time and time again".
Catalyst for growth
She continued: "It can once again prove itself as a catalyst for growth, reinvigorating communities, creating local growth and job opportunities in a tough economic climate.
“Hospitality is not immune from those economic challenges and, while macroeconomic issues around taxes and energy sit with central Government, a positive and enabling attitude to the sector at a local level can see it quickly generate economic growth and job opportunities.
“Backing our sector is undoubtedly one of the quickest ways local authorities can deliver benefits for businesses, residents and, ultimately, the country.”
