From Egham to Addlestone: How Lib Dems would support our High Streets

While families across Runnymede struggle to afford basic pleasures and treasured local pubs face closure, the Liberal Democrats are putting forward concrete solutions to help real people and businesses facing the cost-of-living crisis.

From the riverside venues and hotels along the Thames in Egham to the independent restaurants, cafés and traditional pubs in Thorpe, Addlestone and Chertsey, Runnymede's hospitality sector is the heart of our communities. Yet these vital local businesses are being hammered by a 20% VAT rate and increased National Insurance contributions, whilst footfall plummets as families can no longer afford a meal out or a coffee with friends. 

Don Whyte, local Liberal Democrat Chair, said: "This VAT cut would make a real difference to Runnymede families and our treasured local businesses. It means more affordable meals out, supporting our independent cafés and restaurants, and protecting the jobs of local people who work in hospitality across our borough."

Deputy Leader of the Lib Dem party, Daisy Cooper has urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to implement an emergency VAT cut from 20% to 15% for hospitality, accommodation and attractions. For Runnymede residents, this isn't abstract policy – it's about making Friday fish and chips affordable again for hard-working families who've seen these "small joys" become unaffordable luxuries.

The Liberal Democrats' £12 billion rescue plan would save typical Runnymede families around £270 over eighteen months by combining the hospitality VAT cut with removal of the renewables obligation levy from energy bills. These aren't empty promises – the party has detailed exactly how to fund it: through a windfall tax on big banks that could raise £30 billion.

With one pub closing every day nationally and over 80,000 hospitality jobs lost since the last Budget, Runnymede's restaurants, pubs and attractions urgently need support. Whether it's  independent venues in our town centres or family-run establishments across the borough, these businesses face an impossible squeeze.

While other parties focus on political management, the Liberal Democrats are championing practical, fully-costed policies that would directly improve lives across Runnymede. That's real leadership on issues that matter.

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