skip to main content

MU Express Their Delight at Council’s Rates Cut for Iconic 100 Club

The MU is delighted to learn that Westminster Council has today acted to secure the long-term future of London’s legendary 100 Club with an announcement that the venue will be offered 100% Business Rate Relief from 1 April 2020.

Published: 29 January 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
the 100 club street sign
The 100 Club - A landmark venue that is crucial to London’s cultural landscape.

The decision reduces the overheads at one of the capital’s most historic music venues and saves the management over £70,000 per year.

This decision comes after a lengthy campaign to keep the basement site open and for the 100 Club to remain one of the cultural landmarks in London’s Oxford Street.

A landmark venue that is crucial to London’s cultural landscape

Dave Webster, MU National Organiser for Live Performance, said:

“We are delighted to learn that Westminster Council has taken the bold decision to cut business rates for the 100 Club.

“Keeping such a landmark venue open is crucial to London’s cultural landscape. Its iconic wall of fame will continue to grow as more bands play the venue this year and into the future. 

“Let’s hope other councils across the UK take Westminster’s lead in protecting live music venues.”

Protecting the UK’s music industry

Want to find out more about the MU’s campaigns, other things we support and how you can get involved? Head over to our campaigns page to find out more.

 Care about the future of music and want to do more? Become a supporter of the MU, it’s free to do and you’ll get regular updates on the big issues affecting music right now.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool at sunset.

Outer Waves Festival Returns to Liverpool with MU Member Discount

Outer Waves Festival, the North West's newest celebration of underground arts returns to Liverpool 23-24 May 2026. MU North of England Regional Officer Philip Morris will join a panel on gentrification, and MU members can access discounted weekend tickets.

Published: 13 May 2026

Member only Read more about Outer Waves Festival Returns to Liverpool with MU Member Discount
Women sat in front of some water at sunset with headphones on.

Three in Four Performing Arts Professionals Face Career-Impacting Health Issues Says New BAPAM Report

A new BAPAM Impact Report reveals that 75% of performing arts professionals will face a career-impacting health issue, as demand for specialist support reaches record levels. The MU is among the organisations supporting BAPAM’s work to improve health provision across the sector.

Published: 13 May 2026

Read more about Three in Four Performing Arts Professionals Face Career-Impacting Health Issues Says New BAPAM Report
13 members of the Board gathered in front of some stairs.

MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board

The MU has joined the new Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board alongside artists, venues, labels, media professionals, academics and industry experts. The Board will help shape the future of the region’s music sector and support long-term growth across the local music ecosystem.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board
The panellists sat on the stage with microphones, in front of a screen with saying

MU Panel Explores Rates, Rights and Royalties at Sound City 2026

At Liverpool Sound City Conference 2026, the MU brought together industry professionals and working musicians for its ‘Money in the Mix’ panel to demystify these issues and offer practical insights into building a sustainable career in session work.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Panel Explores Rates, Rights and Royalties at Sound City 2026