The jury is still out as to whether the government’s efforts to help businesses survive the massive hike in energy costs they’re facing will be enough to save many in Haslemere from going under.

That’s the view of business leaders in the area following the announcement of the government’s Energy Bill Relief Scheme which will provide a discount on wholesale gas and electricity prices for all non-domestic customers.

Craig McGowan, president of Haslemere and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce, gave a guarded welcome to the scheme.

“Whilst any help is welcome it remains to be seen whether or not it will be enough,” he said.

Mr McGowan said the government would need to extend the assistance should the war in Ukraine and consequent soaring energy prices continue.

“War is a horrible business for those involved,” he said. “Here it is an inconvenience by comparison but, nevertheless one that threatens the livelihoods of many and undoes the sacrifices made by so many local businesses over recent years to maintain a service to the people of Haslemere.

“The government will need to review the situation midway through the current six-month period.

“If the war looks likely to continue to cause chaos in the energy market, let alone others, then they need to come up with an extension two to three months in advance to give businesses the certainty they need to continue to trade.”

The Haslemere Bookshop is one of the businesses in the town facing a big hike in its energy costs.

Owner Ian Rowley said: “We will carry on trying to reduce our usage to limit damage to the business.”