“We’re working on a knife edge”: Cotswold businesses warn of mounting pressures as Council calls for Government action

Cabinet member for economy and transformation, Cllr Tristan Wilkinson, has set out the concerns in a letter to Chancellor Rachel Reeves which draws on evidence from employers across the district pointing to mounting strain on town centres and local communities. 

Cllr Wilkinson has called on Government to reconsider tax measures affecting the sector – including business rates changes and the end of Covid-era reliefs – and to introduce a more comprehensive package of support. 

He said: “Town centres across the Cotswolds are under real and growing pressure. Businesses are telling us they are operating on increasingly tight margins, and in some cases simply cannot continue without change. 

“These sectors are vital not just to our economy, but to our communities and to providing jobs – particularly for young people. Without further support, I fear we will see more closures, fewer opportunities and lasting damage to our high streets. 

“Supporting our economy and communities are core council priorities, and we are committed to building a lasting legacy for our town centres. Against that backdrop, we are urging Government to listen to businesses on the ground and take meaningful action to ease the burden they are facing.” 

Local business owners say the situation is becoming unsustainable. 

Rob Broadbent, founder of Lynwood & Co., said current trading conditions are “very challenging”, with rising employment costs and business rates forcing difficult decisions. Plans to expand have been put on hold, and he warned it is becoming harder to employ young people due to increased costs. 

In Northleach, Andrea and Alan Richell, founders of The Curious Wine Cellar, described conditions as the worst they have experienced, even compared to the pandemic. 

“If I was to tell you that for every flat white we serve at £3.95, only 16p is profit… everything is against us at the moment,” Andrea said. 

They have already reduced staffing levels to manage costs, describing the impact as both financial and personal. Alan said: “We’ve had to let people go… it’s a struggle to balance the books every day.” 

Despite busy premises, they said many businesses are simply “surviving”, Andrea adding: “We don’t know how much longer we can continue to work on a knife edge.” 

The Council’s letter highlights that these pressures are being felt despite the Cotswolds’ strong visitor economy, with some businesses continuing only through the goodwill of their owners.  

Cotswold District Council says it has limited powers to intervene and is calling on Government to act urgently to protect high streets, support jobs and sustain local communities. 

Cllr Wilkinson added: “These are not abstract challenges – they are affecting real people, real jobs and real communities across the Cotswolds. We need action now to ensure our town centres remain vibrant places to live, work and visit.”