Budget 2026: 'Surrey is a lovely place - but it can be stressful'
Summary
Residents and businesses in Surrey say high housing, food, energy and operating costs are putting pressure on household budgets and hospitality businesses. Ahead of the Chancellor’s budget, people interviewed by BBC Radio Surrey called for lower food and business costs and more support for families and local businesses.Key Facts
- Surrey has average house prices of about £500,000 and high rents, according to the article.
- Thames Side Brewery owner Andy Hayward said hospitality businesses are struggling and called for lower business rates and VAT on hospitality.
- Hayward said live music helps attract customers to his pub and brewery in Staines.
- Lucy, a mother of two from Banstead, said she relies on a local food pantry and wants ministers to reduce food prices.
- Jo Burton from Hersham said food and school uniforms have become more expensive.
- James Stevenson said his household runs out of money before the end of each month despite budgeting and keeping costs low.
- The Walton Charity says 68% of people in poverty in Elmbridge are in working households.
- The Treasury said the government had removed VAT from electricity bills, extended the 5p fuel duty cut, and frozen rail fares and prescription charges.
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