Pub planning law change moves a step closer

By Peter Ruddick

- Last updated on GMT

The Carpenters Arms in Cambridge closed in the summer last year - local MP Julian Huppert is hoping to pass a law protecting pubs from planning laws and change of use policies
The Carpenters Arms in Cambridge closed in the summer last year - local MP Julian Huppert is hoping to pass a law protecting pubs from planning laws and change of use policies
A possible change in the law to protect community pubs and bars from planning decisions and stop venues from becoming victims to changes of use has moved a step closer after passing the first parliamentary stage in the House of Commons.

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.

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