The threat to the future of British music is severe and imminent, with up to two grassroots music venues a week closing permanently last year.

Without urgent action, we will lose an entire generation of talent and artistry to cuts and austerity.  Without grassroots music venues, up-and-coming performers, bands and musicians will not be granted the necessary space to harness and develop their craft, or build enough of a following to move on to bigger things such as record deals or the chance to play at larger concert venues.

We are asking the corporations sponsoring large concert venues and arenas, many of whom have reported massive profits in recent years, to pay their fair share into the delicate ecosystem of British live music, with a small levy on ticket sales that can be directly re-invested into grassroots music venues to ensure their long-term security and sustainability.

For example, a levy of just 50p per ticket on a sold-out show at London’s O2 Arena could raise £10,000 in one night.  With many grassroots music venues operating on profit margins smaller than 0.5 per cent, this money could be a lifeline and support vital repairs, accessibility upgrades and new equipment.

Grassroots music venues are responsible for 30,000 jobs and over £500m to the live music sector – and with adequate investment these figures could be significantly boosted in both local and national economies, allowing existing venues to thrive and the prospect of new spaces more likely.

The government must commit to securing the long-term, sustainable future of grassroots music venues.