Are business owners worried ahead of Autumn budget?
Cornwall’s business community has issued a clear warning ahead of the Chancellor’s Budget - describing the local economy as “on a knife edge”
A new survey of firms across Cornwall rated the local business climate at just 4.1 out of 10, reflecting growing strain across all sectors. Forty-three percent cited rising costs - from energy and wages to insurance - as their single biggest challenge, while another fifth pointed to weak demand and fragile consumer confidence.
One business owner summed it up:
“We’re all working harder for less. There’s no incentive to grow when every new hire feels like a penalty.”
Despite the pressures, Cornish businesses remain pragmatic, not pessimistic. Smaller firms are calling for immediate relief through lower taxes, reduced National Insurance, and simpler regulation. Larger employers want long-term reform - investment in transport, housing, and skills to drive productivity and retain talent.
Both agree the Chancellor must deliver relief and reform together.
Regional frustration also runs deep - 80% of businesses believe Cornwall does not receive a fair share of regional funding. Respondents argue that if Cornwall is expected to lead on clean energy, food security, and critical minerals, national investment must follow.
Top business priorities for the Budget include:
- Reducing NI, VAT and business taxes
- Reforming business rates
- Investing in transport, housing and digital infrastructure
- Supporting skills, apprenticeships and workforce development
Cornwall Chamber CEO, John Brown said:
“Cornwall feeds the nation, powers its energy security, and inspires millions,”
The report concludes. “We don’t want special treatment — just a fair shot at shaping Britain’s economic future.”