Pubs, clubs and live music venues across Stourbridge, Brierley Hill and Netherton set to receive a 20% cut to their business rates bills, saving the typical pub an estimated £1,100 next year.

Cat Eccles MP has welcomed the announcement, saying it will help protect the businesses at the heart of local communities.

On top of £400m support secured last year, the Prime Minister has announced a 20% cut to business rates for pubs, social clubs and live music venues from April next year, helping to reduce costs for the places that bring communities together.

The changes are expected to save the average pub around £1,110 a year, giving businesses more confidence to invest, create jobs and continue serving local people.

The package also includes plans to review business rates reliefs currently accessed by businesses that can contribute to anti social behaviour, including some vape shops, helping to ensure support is targeted towards businesses that strengthen high streets and local communities.

The announcement forms part of a wider package of measures to ease pressures on households and businesses, including electricity bill VAT relief and the £2 bus fare cap.

Cat Eccles MP said:

“Our pubs, social clubs and live music venues are at the heart of our communities. They bring people together, support local jobs and give our high streets the character and vibrancy that make our towns such great places to live.

I’ve heard from hospitality businesses across Stourbridge about the pressures they continue to face. This support is a welcome step in helping local venues thrive, while recognising the vital contribution they make to our local economy and community life.

But there is more to do. I’ve been calling for greater support for hospitality businesses, including pubs, cafés, restaurants, social clubs, hair and beauty salons, soft play centres and gyms, and I will continue working with local businesses and the Government to secure a fairer deal that helps our town centres flourish for years to come.”

The Government says the changes are part of its wider Plan for Change to support town centres, back local businesses and help build stronger local economies across the country.