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Harrogate hospitality boss urges new Prime Minister to back restaurants

Friday, 24 July 2026 07:43

Three's A Crowd owner John Quinlan.

A Harrogate restaurant owner has welcomed the Government's latest business rates support announcement - but says more clarity is needed on whether restaurants will benefit.

Following new Prime Minister Andy Burnham's announcement on business rates support, John Quinlan, founder of independent Leeds restaurant CrowdedHouse and Harrogate's Three's a Crowd, has called for confirmation that the measures will apply across the hospitality sector.

Businesses have continued to face rising costs in recent years, with many restaurants citing business rates, energy bills and wage increases among the biggest financial pressures.

John said:

“Any support for businesses is welcome, and a 20% reduction in business rates is certainly a positive step. The key thing now is ensuring this extends across the whole hospitality sector.

“Hospitality businesses continue to face significant pressures, so I’m keen to see what further support the Government can provide to help protect the industry and the independent businesses that are such an important part of our communities.

“Every bit of support helps, but there is still more to be done to ensure the hospitality sector can continue to thrive.”

The plea follows the Prime Minister's unveiling of a 20% cut in business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues in England from April next year.

The Government says around 32,000 venues will benefit, with the average business expected to save around £1,100 a year.

However, the proposals do not currently extend to restaurants or hotels, prompting calls from across the hospitality sector for the support to be widened.

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