Cheltenham Borough Council 'remains committed' to supporting local businesses in the face of hospitality closures, but says that many issues facing the sector are beyond its control.
ASK in Montpellier, The Ox in Cambray Place and Cake Alchemist, Domaine 16 and The Find in Regent Street have all closed in Cheltenham since the start of the summer.
The issue was raised at a borough council meeting this week with concerns voiced by former councillor Tim Harman, according to Carmelo Garcia, local democracy reporter.
In a written question, Tim asked the council: 'What steps is the council taking to support businesses of this type in these difficult economic times and to attract new businesses to invest in our town?'
Economy cabinet member Izaac Tailford said in response that while the council recognises the impact of the challenges faced by the sector on businesses, staff and the wider economy, many factors cited as the reasons for the closures are beyond the council's control.
He explained: 'This has included business rates, which are set nationally, increasing rent, which is set by landlords and wider economic pressures such as rising costs of materials.'
According to leading global food and drink consultancy, CGA by NIQ, an average of two licenced venues closed permanently every day in the UK in the first half of 2025, with more than 22 per cent fewer independent restaurants nationwide in August 2025 than there were pre-pandemic.
Councillor Tailford highlighted the work the council is doing to help local businesses and attract new investment to the town, including its own marketing, a strong partnership with Cheltenham BID and its support for start-ups via The Growth Hub.
He also pointed out that between eight and nine per cent of the retail premises in the town centre are currently vacant, compared to a national average of around 14 per cent.
Agreeing that it is a 'worrying trend' nationally, he added: 'I’m not worried about Cheltenham because I think they do such a good job and our rates (are) much lower than the rest of the south west, let alone the country.
'However, obviously, as I say, we have to be vigilant.'
