UK Arenas hit with big business figures with numbers up as much as 300 per cent
Some of the most prominent entertainment venues, including the O2, Co-OP Live, the direct Rect In Arena in Leeds and Wedy’s SSE Arena, are set to receive some of the sharpest business rates in the country after the highest gross value (RVS) are revealed in 2026.
A new analysis from the Global Table Firm Ryan shows that almost all the major powers have seen a price increase, in several cases more than doubling, with Wembley Arena’s test by 300%. SPIKE marks a return to packed schedules and growing post-pandemic demand for live music and events.
Alex Plosyn, Tax Practice Leader for Europe and Asia-Pacific at Ryan, said the rate of increase is a direct result of how valuable the platforms are.
“Arenas are assessed under receipts and procurement processes, which means that business values are driven by revenue and operational performance rather than evidence of rent,” he explained.
“A list of 2023 estimates shown in April 2021, when many places are closed or severely restricted. The surprising list shows a full reopening.”
Reform Relief in England will increase capital buildings by 30% in 2026/7 But because the Caps Compound every year, the total debt over the entire three-year cycle is much higher, even if the initial increase looks manageable on paper.
Ryan’s model shows that in the next year alone, even with a 30% cap, some platforms will experience significant revenue increases:
• O2 Arena, London: + £1.85m
• IM & S Bank Arena Liverpool: + £507,825
• Co-op live, manchester: + £432,900
• Manchester Arena: + £386,280
• First Arena, Leeds: + £199,800
• Utilita Arena Birmingham: + £166,500
Probyn cautioned that those working properly should not be lulled into a false sense of security by temporary helmets.
“Periodic relief will soften the impact of the first year, but debt is much higher over a full cycle,” he said. “By receiving large amounts, operators should be more closely evaluated by VOA considerations.”
With areas already under pressure from rising costs, tight margins and economic uncertainty affecting consumer spending, the latest ratings list is set to add further financial pressure to the industry as it rebuilds from COVID-19.
Operators now face the prospect of higher tax costs as investments in new travel, production facilities and local regeneration methods pick up pace.
