Changes to planning for cafes and bars to boost high streets

The government has announced changes to planning and licensing rules to make it quicker and easier for new cafes, bars and music venues to open in place of disused shops.

A new National Licensing Policy Framework is to be introduced, aimed at modernising outdated planning and licensing rules and cut the cost, complexity, and time it takes to open and operate hospitality venues, and help small businesses grow and communities reconnect.

The proposed changes will make it easier to convert disused shops into hospitality venues, and protect long-standing pubs, clubs, and music venues from noise complaints by new developments.

The government plans to introduce the ‘Agent of Change’ principle into national planning and licensing policy, so developers will be responsible for soundproofing their buildings if they choose to build near existing pubs, clubs or music venues.

New dedicated ‘hospitality zones’, will also be introduced where permissions for alfresco dining, street parties and extended opening hours will be fast-tracked.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “This Government has a plan to replace shuttered up shops with vibrant places to socialise turning them into thriving cafés or busy bars, which supports local jobs and gives people a place to get together and catch up over a beer or a coffee.

“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.

“From faster café openings to easier alfresco dining, our Plan for Change will put the buzz back into our town centres and money back into the pockets of local entrepreneurs, because when small businesses thrive, communities come alive.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “Whether it’s cheering on the Lionesses or catching up with friends, our pubs and bars are at the heart of British life.

“For too long, they’ve been stifled by clunky, outdated rules. We’re binning them – to protect pavement pints, al fresco dining and street parties – not just for the summer, but all year round.

“Through our Plan for Change, we’re backing small businesses and bringing good times back to the high street.”