NTIA Says Ban on Upward-Only Rent Review a Clear Signal of Government's Intent to Back Local Business and Night Time Economy

14 July 2025 - Press release

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has welcomed the Government’s Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, describing the decision to ban upward-only rent review (UORR) clauses as a landmark win for independent businesses and a clear direction of intent to support the UK’s struggling high streets and night time economy.

The NTIA, which represents thousands of night time economy operators across the UK, has long campaigned for an end to these restrictive clauses, which have fuelled rent inflation, undermined business confidence, and contributed to the closure of hundreds of late-night venues, clubs, and independent spaces.

Michael Kill, CEO of NTIA, said:

“The banning of upward-only rent reviews is a significant and long-overdue win for our sector and a strong signal that the Government is starting to back business in a meaningful way. These clauses have punished hospitality, nightlife, and independent high street operators for years, this move will bring much-needed fairness and stability to commercial leasing.”

“This is also a vital first step in a broader plan to empower local communities and rebuild regional economies. We’ve lobbied hard to get this issue—and others like licensing reform and the modernisation of heritage protections—on the Government’s agenda, and we’re pleased to see movement at last.”

“This Bill reflects a real shift in thinking: a recognition that the solutions to economic growth and regeneration lie not in centralised control, but in enabling local leadership, ownership, and decision-making. It’s a step toward a more dynamic and inclusive future, because ‘local is the new national.’”

The NTIA also welcomed other key measures in the Bill, including stronger powers for local mayors, new community rights to buy assets such as pubs and music venues, and renewed support for safeguarding cultural spaces.

The NTIA will continue to work with Government and partners to ensure that this Bill becomes the foundation for long-term support, reform and investment in the night time economy and the communities it serves.

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