About 18 pubs close every week as more people drink at home

THE NUMBER of pubs closing every week has remained at around 18 amid evidence that more people are choosing to drink at home, according to a report published today.

The research by the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) has revealed that there were 476 closures in the first six months of the year across the UK, 13 more than in the last six months of 2017.

There were more than 60 pub closures a week in the North West and South East of England this year, with more than 50 in Greater London and the South West. Camra also reported that four out of five people had experienced a local pub closure in the past five years.

A survey of more than 2,000 adults found that one in five had seen five or more local pubs close. Camra said the figures highlighted the “huge obstacles” facing pubs including the beer duty, business rates and VAT.

The organisation’s chairman, Jackie Parker, claimed that the findings painted a “dismal picture” for pubs, adding: “As taxes continue to rise, more people are choosing to drink at home and as a consequence, pubs are closing down.

“It’s a vicious cycle. Pub closures make us all poorer by reducing overall tax revenues raised by the pub sector and weakening community life in areas where valued pubs close.

“Fundamental change is needed if the British pub is to survive for future generations. We are urging the Government to take action to secure the future of our pubs by relieving the tax burden.”

The report has been published on the first day of Camra’s Great British Beer Festival, which is being held in London.