Milton Keynes Council Funds Grassroots Music Venues

0:00It's March 25th. You're listening to music news today, AI-powered coverage of the music industry. Milton Keynes City Council has set aside 40,000 pounds to help grassroots music venues stay alive and thrive. Four spots will get the cash, the Crawford Arms, MK11, the Stables, and Unit 9. This funding aims to boost live shows and give new talent a real shot. The venues have clear plans for the money. The Crawford Arms will run live showcases for local bands. MK11 is hosting free gigs to draw crowds while paying artists fairly. Unit 9 wants to expand its future sounds events for up-and-coming DJs and producers. Councillor Chanika Mahendran says these independent spots are key to the city's culture as it grows. There were bands start out, music stays affordable, and fans make memories. She looks forward to seeing the funding spark more action on stage. This comes amid tough times for UK music.

1:01Thirty grassroots venues shut down between July 2024 and July 2025. Over half of the rest aren't turning a profit, and more than 6,000 jobs vanished last year. Groups like the featured artist Coalition raise 125,000 pounds through ticket levies from big names to fight touring costs. Efforts continue with national pushes for more levies on arena shows and events like the Everywhere at Once Festival hitting venues nationwide next year. Local support like this could help keep the scene pulsing strong.