The government has unveiled plans to protect existing pubs, clubs and music venues from noise complaints made by people in new developments.
Developers will be responsible for soundproofing their buildings if they choose to build near existing pubs, clubs or music venues, in a principle the government dubbed ‘Agent of Change’.
There will also be new ‘hospitality zones’, where permissions for alfresco dining, street parties and extended opening hours will be fast-tracked.
The change comes as part of the National Licensing Policy Framework, which will also make it easier to convert disused shops into hospitality venues.
Jonathan Reynolds, business and trade secretary, said: “Red tape has stood in the way of people’s business ideas for too long.
“Today we’re slashing those barriers to giving small business owners the freedom to flourish.”
Michael Sears, NAEA Propertymark commercial advisory panel board member, praised the government’s policy change, noting that local residents still need to have a voice when it comes to new developments.
He said: “The decline of countless high streets has been widely reported on for many years and yet businesses such as cafes and pubs can help generate much needed employment and contribute positively to creating more vibrant and pleasant communities.
“Propertymark has seen a recent renewed confidence from many investors regarding the provision of high quality retail and office space, so it is welcome to see the UK government’s announcement to overhaul planning and licencing rules to help create a more streamlined process that aims to rejuvenate town and city centres for the future.
“It is positive to see proposals that will aim to make it simpler for new businesses to open in place of disused shops, alongside new ‘hospitality zones’ that will fast-track permissions for potential new pubs. However, it is also vital that any overhauled plans are sympathetic to local residents and are closely examined on an individual basis.”