24th June 2026
South Oxfordshire's pubs are under increasing pressure from rising costs, higher energy bills and the burden of business rates.
Across the UK, around 80 pubs are closing every month, threatening the future of valued community spaces that support local jobs, combat loneliness and bring people together.
To help protect local pubs, South Oxfordshire District Council's Liberal Democrat cabinet has proposed a new business rates relief scheme that would provide a 15% business rates subsidy for eligible pubs during the 2026/27 financial year.
The scheme has been carefully costed and would not require any increase in council tax.
The proposal, published today, aims to support pubs at a time when many are facing significant financial pressures while continuing to serve as important social and economic hubs in towns and villages across the district.
Cabinet Member for Finance, Cllr Pieter-Paul Barker (Lib Dem, Thame), said:
"I am pleased to take this proposal forward for cabinet approval. Due to our careful financial management over many years at South Oxfordshire District Council, we can now afford to support our pubs at a time when their costs have risen sharply. Pubs are at the heart of many of our communities and we want to help ensure they continue to thrive."
Freddie van Mierlo, MP from Henley and Thame welcomed the proposal, saying:
"Lib Dem councillors are stepping up and making a difference where it matters. Our pubs are important community hubs and it's wonderful that this well-run local council can offer financial support to help them through a challenging period."
The proposal will be considered by the council's cabinet on the 2nd July
