Cambridgeshire pub working harder than ever as alcohol tax to return
The Rose and Crown in Manea is one pub that's having to adapt to rising costs
Last updated 18th Jul 2023
A pub in Cambridgeshire says it is having to work even harder to encourage more people to visit as more pubs continue to close.
Fenland is one of the districts that has seen the biggest decline in pubs between July 2020 and February last year, according to figures from finance firm Rift.
In July 2020 there were 90 pubs registered in Fenland compared to 19 months later where that number dropped to 72.
An alcohol tax freeze that was extended last December is also due to end next month, meaning the cost of a pint could jump.
Patrick Webster is the landlord at the Rose and Crown pub in Manea:
“The prices have got to the point where people will start not coming out as much as they used to if you increase it too much,” he said.
“We’re quite fortunate, it’s a good village pub.
“We’ve got good support and get involved in a lot that goes on in the village, and I think that’s key to keeping this pub here and just working hard.”
An alcohol tax freeze imposed during the Autumn Budget three years ago has helped stem the drop in the number of pub closures in the UK.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced a ‘draught relief’ will cut alcohol duty for drinks below 8.5% ABV.
"Times are changing and I can't see it coming back"
But with the new tax due to come into force from August 1, pubs may face a tougher task in attracting more people towards higher prices.
Patrick took over the Rose and Crown more than two years ago and has had to cut the number of staff while paying higher energy bills to run the pub.
“In a village having heating, oil and electric and not having the ability to get gas has probably had one of the biggest effects, but times are changing, and I can’t see it coming back,” he said.
“I think people’s habits have changed. Not so many people come out like they used to; they’ll go to a main town or have parties at home, which is cheaper.
“But I think giving people a reason to come to the pub is going to be key to keeping people at the pub.”