Pub planning law change moves a step closer
The Ten Minute Rule Bill was introduced by Cambridge MP Julian Huppert who is also a member of the All-Party 'Save the Pub' group of MPs and Lords. It will now get a second reading later this year.
The Local Services (Planning) Bill, which has been supported by Camra, seeks to stop local shops and pubs from being demolished or their premises or land being granted a change of use. The change would differentiate between independent businesses and the development of housing, supermarkets or large chains.
If passed it would place new constraints on changing use away from pubs. It would also allow local authorities to require any granting of planning permission for pubs and bars.
The law change is the latest attempt to protect pubs from planning laws - most recently the City Council in Huppert's constituency introduced a consultation on changing local regulations to stop pubs councillors believe are profitable from being forced to close.
