Supporting Surrey Heath Businesses
Reforming the Business Rates System
Surrey Heath’s high streets are under pressure.
Local businesses are being hit by rising costs and reduced relief, while the outdated business rates system continues to penalise high street shops. I’ve met with business owners across the constituency, and the message is clear: the system isn’t working.
In 2025–26, Surrey Heath businesses will pay over £30 million in business rates — but just 2.5% of that will stay local. Less than £1 million will be reinvested in our high streets. That’s simply not fair.
Business rates should support local services, cleaner streets, and thriving town centres — not disappear into central government. I’ve raised this issue in Parliament and at a business breakfast in Camberley, urging ministers to reform the system and restore confidence in local enterprise.
Smaller businesses are being squeezed out, while online giants benefit from a lighter tax burden. We need a system that levels the playing field and supports local growth.
To keep business voices at the heart of this campaign, I’m launching a Business Advisory Panel, giving local owners a direct say in shaping policy and sharing concerns with me and my team.
Please email me if you would like to participate: al.pinkerton.mp@parliament.uk
