
Music industry bodies have expressed disappointment that yesterday’s budget didn’t do more to help struggling grassroots live venues and clubs.
Their main gripe is Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ announcement that business rate relief on small venues will go down from its current rate of 75% to 40% from April next year. The MVT (Music Venue Trust) responded immediately, putting out a press statement that alleged that the move will place an added £7 million in taxes on small venues, putting many in danger of closure.