The Pubs Relief is part of a package of measures that is being introduced by the government to support local high streets. From April this year:
- small shops and cafes will see their bills halved as the retail discount, currently a third off, is extended to 50%
- music venues and cinemas will become eligible for the retail discount
- a £1,500 discount for local newspapers office space will be extended for a further five years
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/happy-hour-for-pubs-as-government-cuts-business-rates
Announcement made on 27th January and to take effect from 1st April 2020.
A quick search on the web and it seems music venues are happiest about this announcement and maybe .gov.uk headline is a bit one dimensional