Oxfordshire pubs given financial support with rates discount

South Oxfordshire District Council‘s Cabinet has approved a one-off top-up rates relief scheme for 2026/27, giving eligible pubs an additional 15 per cent discount on their business rates to ease financial pressures.

Maggie Filipova-Rivers, leader of South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Pubs make a massive contribution to life in South Oxfordshire however many have to work incredibly hard to manage increasing costs.

“This additional business rates relief will provide practical support, helping eligible pubs remain resilient while continuing to serve their communities.”

The extra relief will be automatically applied to all pubs in South Oxfordshire that already qualify for the Government’s Pub Relief Scheme, with no need for businesses to apply.

Revised business rates bills will be issued over the next month.

The council estimates around 120 pubs will benefit from the scheme during 2026/27.

However, many continue to face increasing financial pressures, including higher employment costs and inflation.

Councillor Filipova-Rivers said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer this additional support, and we’ll continue to work with the sector while calling for the long-term backing that pubs need from national government.”

The council said it remains committed to working with businesses and partners to support a thriving hospitality sector in South Oxfordshire.