UK Government Backs Ticket Levy for Music Venues

The UK government plans to introduce a voluntary levy on concert tickets sold at stadiums and arenas by 2025 to support grassroots music venues struggling post-pandemic. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) believes this 'industry-led' levy could quickly channel funds from larger shows to help smaller venues, which have faced significant closures recently. In Bristol, local leaders propose a £1 ticket levy that could generate up to £1 million annually to support its music scene, supported by 93% of residents in a recent survey. This initiative comes in response to the closure of 125 independent venues across the UK in 2023, and aims to alleviate financial pressures on local music venues exacerbated by reduced business rates relief. The success of Bristol's proposal could serve as a model for other cities considering similar measures. Overall, the government's backing of the levy reflects a growing recognition of the importance of grassroots music venues to the broader music industry.