Bristol considers 1% gig ticket levy to support grassroots music venues

Bristol City Council is exploring a proposal to introduce a 1% levy on gig tickets, aiming to generate up to £1 million annually to support the city’s grassroots music scene.

The BBC reported that levy, added like a booking fee, would be collected into a central Bristol Music Fund managed by a newly formed Community Benefit Society. Funds could help venues improve soundproofing and accessibility, support midweek events, and offer better pay for performers.

Night-time economy adviser Carly Heath highlighted chronic underinvestment in grassroots venues, which host 78% of Bristol’s events but receive only 32% of ticketing revenue.

She said:

“There is chronic underinvestment in the music sector, particularly at that grassroots level, not just in Bristol but nationally.”

“Grassroots venues nurture music talent, they bring communities together and they provide the gathering spaces where people can come and celebrate and bathe in joy.”

The fund may also support artist development, training, and career pathways.

Councillors have approved initial preparations, and a recent survey found most gig-goers would support the extra charge. Venues can opt in voluntarily, with customers paying the levy only where applied.