Andy Burnham cuts business rates for nightclubs and music venues in England

Nightclubs, music venues and pubs across England are set to receive a 20% cut to their business rates next year, new Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced today (July 23).

Cuts will come into effect in the next tax year (April 2027), estimated to save the "typical pub" around £1,100 on average next year alone.

Business rate cuts will reportedly benefit around 32,000 clubs, live music venues and pubs across the country, and is expected to cost the government around £100 million annually.

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It comes as part of the government’s wider efforts to "drive growth in every postcode", it announced, by aiding local businesses and investing in nightlife.

"For too long, governments have stood by while cherished venues have disappeared from our local high streets," Burnham said. "So today I am changing that."

"This government will back the businesses that people want to see in their communities. I said I would protect pubs and local high streets – the beating heart of our communities – and that’s what we will do."

Despite the positive announcement, cuts will not apply for nightlife venues in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, it has been confirmed.

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Large live music venues are also expected to be excluded from cuts, the government has said. Eligibility criteria will be revealed in the autumn budget.

Speaking on the move, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), Michael Kill, called it a "positive outcome" for the music industry, but said that the NTIA will "continue to press for the final scheme to provide the broadest possible support."

"The inclusion of clubs alongside pubs and live music venues is particularly important and demonstrates a broader recognition of the vital economic, cultural and social contribution made by the night-time economy," he said.

Read the government's full announcement here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag’s Associate Digital Editor