The UK's new prime minister, Andy Burnham, has announced a 20% cut to business rates for pubs, clubs and grassroots music venues, set to take effect from April 2027. The move is intended to protect community venues that Burnham says are at risk of closing down and being replaced by empty shops, and it comes amid mounting financial pressure on the UK's live music sector.

Downing Street estimates the cut could save each venue around £1,000, with funding drawn from a review of tax reliefs for businesses deemed to contribute less to local communities, such as vape shops. The announcement follows a Music Venue Trust report that found 53% of grassroots venues failed to turn a profit in 2025, with the sector losing over 6,000 jobs, a 19% workforce contraction. Industry figures welcomed the cut but pushed for more, including support for recording studios and assurances that Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland receive matching funding, while artists such as Harry Styles, Coldplay and Sam Fender have separately pledged ticket proceeds to support venues.