By Lisa Ramsden
Hefty increases in rates bills have been branded “extortionate” and “grossly unfair.” There are fears the steep rise could put some people out of business, unless urgent and drastic action is taken.
Leading figures within the district’s hospitality sector have added their voice to the rapidly growing provincewide call for an urgent reduction on their “hugely inflated” and “disproportionate” business rates.
Stephen Magorrian, director of the Horatio Group, which owns a number of venues across the country, including Denvir’s in Downpatrick, Patrick Maginn, who employs over 60 people at Quinn’s Bar in Newcastle, and Jack O’Hare, who owns two licensed premises in the town, say the bills that have been issued are, in many cases, simply unaffordable.
Sarah and Phil Patterson, who own The Dundrum Inn, have said “the idea that our sector can absorb more significant increases is completely detached from reality.”
Mr Magorrian, the former chairman of Hospitality Ulster, said he remains unconvinced that enough is being done to help the trade grow. He said he, and countless others in the industry, feel they face a cliff edge, with the 2026 revaluation threatening to squeeze margins yet further.
Mr Maginn described the business rates as “frightening and grossly unfair.” He said the process by which the rateable value of hospitality venues is decided “is simply wrong,” and he called for an urgent review.
This was echoed by fellow Newcastle businessman, Jack O’Hare, who described the latest bills as “extortionate” and questioned what those who have received these bills are getting in return.
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