Pubs, clubs and live music venues to get 20% business rates cut

By Anna Jordan on Small Business UK - Advice and Ideas for UK Small Businesses and SMEs

Business rates will be cut by 20% for pubs, clubs and live music venues in England from April 2027.

However, the rate cut will not apply to the ‘very largest’ music venues. More details will be announced by the new Chancellor, John Healey, in his first Budget this autumn.

The measure will cost around £100 million a year and is estimated to save pubs £1,100 in tax next year.   

Andy Burnham said that the cuts will be funded by a review of tax reliefs on businesses that “do not make a positive contribution to communities, such as vape shops.” He also stated there will be a crackdown on businesses selling through online marketplaces which “do not comply with their tax obligations.”

“Pubs, clubs and live music venues are at the heart of communities across the UK,” says Chancellor John Healey. “They bring people together, support local jobs and help keep High Streets and town centres busy – which is why we will back them all the way.”

“We are determined to bring hope back, give businesses the support they need and generate growth in every postcode,” he adds.

Chief secretary to the Treasury, Emma Reynolds, has hinted at “further reforms” will be looked at “in the lead up to the Budget” which could affect, hotels, restaurants and cafés.

Find out more about business rates in our video guide below.

Michelle Ovens CBE, CEO and founder of Small Business Britain, said: “Many of the UK’s 5.7 million small businesses are based on our high streets, and this should be the start of wider support for businesses that are so vital to our local communities.

“While the summer can provide a welcome boost for many high street businesses, it also brings additional pressures. As we head towards the final quarter of the year, it’s positive to see the Prime Minister’s commitment to supporting businesses people want to see on their high streets, and we look forward to seeing that commitment backed by continued investment that enables local businesses and the communities they serve to thrive.”

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