Business rates relief for high streets

by Aitch, posted in Business Support

As announced at the Autumn Budget 2026, the government is introducing a package of business rates measures to support high street businesses in England from 1 April 2027. The measures aim to reduce bills, protect jobs and support investment in the retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) sectors.

The Small Business Rates Relief (SBRR) thresholds for qualifying RHL properties will increase. The threshold for 100% relief will rise from £12,000 to £18,000 rateable value, while the threshold for tapered relief will increase from £15,000 to £21,000. This is expected to bring around 70,000 additional high street businesses out of business rates.

Business rates bill increases for qualifying RHL properties in England will also be frozen in real terms for two years, covering 2027-28 and 2028-29, with increases capped at CPI inflation.

In addition, relief for pubs, social clubs and all but the largest live music venues will increase from 15% to 35% from April 2027. Live music venues with a rateable value of £1 million or more will continue to receive 15% relief.

The government will also extend the Supporting Small Business scheme for a further year and the 1p Transitional Relief Supplement for two years.

Adult Gaming Centres in England will no longer qualify for the RHL business rates multipliers from April 2027. Vape shops will also lose eligibility for the RHL multipliers and Small Business Rates Relief (SBRR). The changes aim to better target business rates relief towards businesses that support thriving high streets.

Source:HM Treasury | 02-11-2026
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Aitch
I'm Aitch, the Founder and CEO of CIGMA Accounting Ltd. As a Chartered Management Accountant and as a CIMA member, I've spent more than 16 years helping businesses, entrepreneurs, landlords, and individuals with tax planning, accounting, and HMRC compliance. As a chartered accountant in London, I'm passionate about making complex tax matters easier to understand and helping clients make confident financial decisions. Over the years, I've advised start-ups, SMEs, established companies, and high-net-worth individuals across a wide range of tax and accounting matters. My expertise includes Corporation Tax, Self-Assessment, Capital Gains Tax, Inheritance Tax planning, R&D tax relief, capital allowances, international tax, and resolving complex HMRC compliance issues. Whether clients need a business accountant, tax accountant, or strategic tax advisor, my focus is always on delivering practical advice that creates long-term value. One of my specialist areas is Making Tax Digital (MTD). I've worked extensively with businesses preparing HMRC's digital reporting requirements, helping them move to cloud accounting, improve financial processes, and adopt technology that makes compliance more efficient. I regularly speak at Making Tax Digital roadshows, industry events, and educational sessions in collaboration with Zoho Books, sharing practical insights into digital accounting, tax legislation, and the future of the profession. Many business owners looking for the best accounting firm in London are not simply searching for an accountant they're looking for trusted advice, responsive support, and long-term value. That's the approach I've taken in building CIGMA Accounting. My team and I work closely with businesses across London and the UK, providing accounting services, tax advisory, bookkeeping, payroll, VAT, company accounts, and strategic tax planning tailored to each client's goals. Through this website, I share practical guidance on UK taxation, Making Tax Digital, HMRC updates, Corporation Tax, Self-Assessment, and business finance. My aim is to provide reliable, straightforward information that helps business owners understand changing regulations, reduce compliance risks, and make informed financial decisions with confidence.
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