The UK Government has announced a new U-turn by offering 15% business rates relief for eligible pubs and live music venues for the 2026–27 financial year.
This additional support comes at a crucial time for venues facing rising operational costs and continued pressure on footfall. The announcement also confirms that business rates bills for qualifying properties will be frozen in real terms for the following two years, helping create at least some stability across the sector.
Kieran Edwards, Senior Surveyor at SHW, says: “For operators working on tight margins, this relief offers at least some breathing space to invest, plan ahead and continue serving their local communities. However with rising overheads elsewhere, operators are still expected to be operating on tight margins for the next few years.”
To qualify, Pubs must:
- Be open to the general public
- Allow free entry (except for occasional entertainment)
- Serve drinks without requiring food
- Allow bar service
Live music venues qualify when they are primarily used for the performance of live music, with other activities only taking place on an ancillary basis.
Kieran adds: “This relief package reinforces the vital role pubs and live venues play as social and cultural anchors within towns and cities. For operators, local authorities and advisors, now is the time to review eligibility and prepare for implementation ahead of the 2026–27 billing cycle.”