Boost for live music as government announces plans to exempt small venues

Live music performances for 100 people or less will no longer need to be licensed, under proposals announced by Licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe.

An exemption from the Licensing Act for small live music events would make it easier for a wide range of venues to put on live music, and help musicians who want to play to a live audience.

Premises such as pubs, clubs, cafes, restaurants, village halls and record shops would be able to host events without the need for a specific licence.

But to ensure that any concerns of people living close to venues are taken into account, the exemption would only apply to performances that are indoors, and take place between 8am and 11pm.

For more information: www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/consultations/6499.aspx

(Source: Voluntary Arts Network)