The night-time industry has seen the closure of one in four venues over the last five years, data reveals.

Research by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has highlighted the nationwide ‘decline in night time economy’ since 2020, with almost 800 late-night venues having closed down since 2020.

In its ‘Night Time Economy Market Monitor’ report, NTIA found that the industry has seen three net closures of businesses each week across the last three months.

According to the research, influences such as ‘COVID, the cost-of-living crisis, high inflation and a shortage of government support’ are among the factors contributing to the ‘night time deserts’, which the NTIA describes as areas with few to no options for after-dark venues.

NTIA argues that night time venue closures are highly detrimental to communities, resulting in damage to local businesses and economies, as well as ‘job losses and reduced choice’ for residents.

Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA said: ‘We’re witnessing the loss of important social infrastructure from our towns and cities. Nightclubs and late-night venues are more than just places to dance – they’re cultural institutions, economic engines and cornerstones of community life’.

As part of the organisation’s ‘call to action’, the NTIA is asking the Government to cut VAT for bars, clubs and other late night venues on a permanent basis, supporting ‘recovery’ and ‘growth’ within the industry.

The report also urges the Government to reintroduce National Insurance thresholds for businesses and preserve the night time sector’s business rates relief ‘until meaningful reform is delivered’.

‘The gap between independent and managed operators is widening, and unless action is taken, we risk losing the diversity and creativity that independent venues bring to our towns and cities’, added Mr Kill.