High street shops, pharmacies, and music venues along the main retail corridor have expressed their desire for the scheduled reductions in business rates that apply to pubs to be extended to them as well. Local businesses argue that the rate structure should reflect the comparable costs faced by venues that attract significant footfall and support community activity. Recent statements from shopkeepers have highlighted the need for cohesive policy that addresses commercial equality on shared commercial real estate. _2

The campaign for inclusion emerged following a council decision to reduce rates for licensed premises by a percentage set to take effect at the start of the fiscal year. Supporters of the move suggest that these cutbacks help local economies by boosting consumer spending in nightlife venues. However, retailers and cultural operators contend that similar financial relief could stimulate diversity of offerings in town centres. In response, the municipality outlined a review process that will examine the impact of rate changes on non‑pub businesses, noting that any adjustment would require statutory approval. _3

If the council adopts an expanded rate policy, it could lead to a measurable shift in business expenditure patterns across both nightlife and daytime retailers, potentially restoring balance to retail ecosystems that were previously skewed in favour of licensed premises. The discussion remains open, with stakeholders from various sectors continuing dialogue to determine whether the benefit of rate reductions should be impartially applied. The outcome is expected to influence future budgetary allocations for local economic development and service provision across the city.