Local MP Robert Largan has backed High Peak pubs and endorsed the #NoPubNoRent campaign. This is a call for pub companies and breweries to waive commercial rent for their tenanted pubs while they are closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

While they are forced to close, pubs are not receiving any income. Most rent agreements are based on the pub’s turnover, yet major pub companies and breweries are refusing to waive commercial rent. The Pubs Code Adjudicator has made contact with the regulated pub companies, asking them to demonstrate leadership and help protect their tenants’ businesses and livelihoods.

In addition to concerns about rental payments, pubs still have a number of costs to cover. This includes maintenance, insurance, and utility bills. There is plenty of support from the UK Government such as the Business Rates holiday, cash grants, and frozen duties on beer, cider, wine and spirits. However, many pubs will struggle to survive if they do not receive help from landlords during this period of disruption.

Robert has written an open letter to the Lawson Mountstevens, the Managing Director of Heineken’s Star Pubs & Bars, urging him to support the campaign and waive commercial rent for his company’s tenanted pubs. This includes many pubs in the High Peak. Robert will also be writing to the heads of other breweries and pub companies in support of the #NoPubNoRent campaign and to help High Peak pubs.

Robert Largan MP commented:

“Pubs are at the hearts of our neighbourhoods, connecting people with each other. That is why we feel their absence so deeply during this crisis.

“Despite their own hardship, many publicans are doing their bit to help the most vulnerable in the High Peak, such as delivering meals for elderly neighbours. To take the time to volunteer is really impressive and a testament to the spirit of High Peak communities.

“It is for these reasons that pub companies and breweries should do their bit too and support local pubs both here in the High Peak and across the country. Waiving commercial rent for their pubs is the right thing to do, and will make it easier for community life to return to normal when the crisis is over.”