BUSINESS RATES CUT 20% FOR PUBS AND LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues across England will be reduced by 20% from April 2027, Downing Street announced on 23 July 2026. The cut represents the third policy announcement made since Andy Burnham became Prime Minister on 20 July 2026. The government framed the measure as part of its cost-of-living support package.

The announcement came within three days of Burnham taking office. No additional details regarding implementation, eligibility criteria or estimated cost to the Exchequer were provided in the announcement. The policy applies to England only; the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland operate separate business rates systems.

The cut to business rates forms part of the new government's opening agenda on economic policy. Hospitality businesses and live music venues have faced sustained cost pressures in recent years. The measure is set to take effect on the standard business rates revaluation date in April 2027.