14/10/2025
This is also welcome for studios, including smaller businesses wanting to start or relocate. I'm not sure that re-categorising studios won't potentially cause unforeseen issues down the line though. Fundamentally, the business rating system doesn't work and they're too high in town centres and on high streets. Especially when a building needs re-rating as you have to sign a lease to start the process. That means you don't know until you're committed whether you'll be landed with an additional £800 per month rates payable bill. If I've got that wrong, please comment. How about a stepped system where your rates payable increases up to the headline over a number of years? Or just cut them across the board and help put empty buildings to use.
UK Music is delighted to support the The Music Producers Guild - MPG petition to Government to recognise recording studios as eligible for reduced business rates under the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure (RHL) scheme – a move which could help save hundreds of crucial cultural spaces the length and breadth of the UK.
UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl said: “Our world-leading studios are a critical part of the UK music industry. They nurture talent, attract global stars to work here and help create music loved by millions across the world. However, many are struggling to survive in the wake of rising costs. The Government could deliver them a lifeline by cutting business rates to give them the chance to thrive and help our economy grow.”
You can find out more and sign the petition here: https://tinyurl.com/mprvp292
