Pubs, clubs and live music venues are set to receive a 20% cut to their business rates bills from April 2027 with the government claiming the cuts will benefit nearly 32,000 outlets, saving the typical pub an estimated £1,100 in the next financial year.
The announcement forms part of the new Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s Government’s wider plan to drive growth across the UK by reducing the burden on local businesses and boosting investment on high street.
It was also revealed that the government will also be reviewing reliefs for businesses that do not make a positive contribution to local communities, such as vape shops, as well as cracking down on businesses that sell through online marketplaces but do not comply with their tax obligations.
Read more: FWD puts forward business rates case to Andy Burnham
Burnham said: “For too long, governments have stood by while cherished venues have disappeared from our local high streets. 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. What we’re announcing today is just the start as we work to bring back hope across the country.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey added: “Pubs, clubs and live music venues are at the heart of communities across the UK. They help make a place what we love. 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. This is just one step of the Government’s plans to back our communities and high streets and we will return to our commitment to reform the wider business rates system, including Small Business Rates Relief, at the Budget.”
