Massive boost to grassroots music as venues’ business rates are slashed

Trade organisations are celebrating the Government's decision to cut business rates for small and medium-sized grassroots music venues by 50%.

The announcement, which tallies with a pledge in the Conservative Party's election manifesto, will save 230 venues an average of £7500 each per year, totalling about £1.7m.

Music Venue Trust CEO Mark Davyd called it "another foundation stone" in support for grassroots music but said it was time for recording, streaming and publishing interests to "play their part".

"Billions of pounds in revenue are being generated in the music industry from the music that is tested, developed, finds its audience and emerges from these vital spaces."

Kelly Wood of the Musicians' Union said the body was "pleased to see the Government finally respond to the needs of the grassroot music venues". Further lobbying is still needed to protect venues from closure, Wood said.