Changing pubs into homes to be made harder under new rules

England's government plans to make it more difficult to transform pubs into residential or office spaces under new planning rules. The updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) will protect pubs from closure for conversion, giving them more security against being turned into other uses. Previous consultations only provided protection for the last pub in an area, but stakeholders argue that high taxes and employment costs are the main reasons for pub closures.

The Conservatives criticized the Labour government for failing to meet housing targets. Under the new rules, developers must demonstrate that there's no reasonable chance of maintaining a pub business for at least 12 months, including proof of marketing efforts. Councils will also assess the impact on communities when reviewing change of use applications.

The rules aim to prevent owners from closing pubs on purpose to justify their demolition. The NPPF sets government planning policies for England, while Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have their own frameworks. Both the Campaign for Real Ale and the British Beer and Pub Association have campaigned against pub closures, blaming tax increases and other expenses.

UKHospitality's CEO, Allen Simpson, emphasized that high costs like VAT and business rates are the primary factors leading to pub closures. The government's announcement of a 20% cut to business rates for pubs, social clubs, and live music venues comes as a relief. However, the NPPF update also includes automatic approval for housing around railway stations to boost housebuilding.

Housing Secretary Angela Rayner highlighted the benefits of well-connected transport hubs for people's daily needs and community growth. Despite these changes, Labour's target of building 1.5 million homes by 2029 has been criticized as insufficient, with the government accused of failing to meet its objectives due to taxes and bureaucratic hurdles.