Sheffield pubs: Worried pub and venue operators warn MP over new business rates bills
Worried operators and publicans have warned that rocketing business rates could force ‘valued community spaces’ in Sheffield to close.
Sheffield MP Louise Haigh said she had written to the Chancellor after complaints that proposed business rates hikes, and an end to business rates relief, could close grassroots music venues and pubs.
She said she had called for the “immediate introduction” of emergency 40 per cent business rates relief for grassroots music venues, similar to the support previously provided to film studios, recognising venues as essential creative infrastructure.
Ms Haigh, MP for Sheffield Heeley, said the planned changes risked pushing venues to the brink.
She added: “Grassroots music venues and local pubs are the beating heart of our communities in Sheffield. They are places where people come together, where talent is nurtured, and where our local economy and culture thrive.
“I have written to the Chancellor to make clear that this approach is unsustainable and to call for urgent action to protect these vital community spaces before it’s too late.”
Ms Haigh said analysis conducted by the Music Venue Trust found that hundreds of grassroots music venues were set to see their rateable value rise by more than 50 per cent, with dozens more experiencing increases of 100 per cent, 200 per cent, or more.
It is projected that pubs could see business rates increase by almost 30 per cent over the next three years, she added.