Figures released by the charity show that Scottish venues are three times more likely than those in England to face increases of 50% in their rates. Pubs and music venues have hit out at the recent rates announcement. Lovett said: “I don’t think there’s enough understanding around just how much these live music venues contribute. Ignoring the plight and importance of independent grassroots music venues would be a real misstep, and they need to be protected at all costs. “Losing them is a far greater loss than the business rates that they, often, simply cannot afford to pay.”Tweeddale added: “Sudden, unjustified hikes in Business Rates are enough to tip otherwise viable venues into closure.

Source: The Herald February 05, 2026 14:58 UTC