Responding to the Autumn Budget 2025, SOLT & UK Theatre Co-CEO Claire Walker said:
“In challenging fiscal conditions, it is understandable that Government has focused on cost-of-living pressures. However, given the ambition set out in the Creative Industries Sector Plan, today’s Budget feels like a missed opportunity to accelerate growth in a sector that delivers jobs, exports, and economic value in every region.
“The new tourism levy may unlock additional investment, but it is vital that any funds raised provide genuine additional support for culture, which is a core driver of tourism. We look forward to further detail on the proposed changes to the apprenticeship system, which must support the theatre sector’s skills pipeline and workforce development if they are to meet the needs of the creative industries.
“Across the UK, theatres anchor high streets, sustain the night-time economy, and deliver significant social and educational value. For every £1 spent on a theatre ticket, a further £1.40 is spent in the local economy. Theatre is not only a cultural asset, but a proven force for regeneration, talent development, and international success.
“Yet, rising costs and ageing infrastructure are placing real pressure on organisations of all scales. The Creative Foundations Fund was nine times oversubscribed, underlining the urgent need for capital investment and the risk of losing cultural assets without support.
“Ahead of the Budget, we set out a focused set of measures to help address these challenges, including strengthening Theatre Tax Relief for touring, reforming business rates, and boosting capital and philanthropic investment. While these have not yet been taken forward, we remain ready to work with Government to ensure the Creative Industries Sector Plan is delivered in full, so that theatres can continue to create jobs, support local economies, and provide world-class performances to audiences across the UK.”
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