Property experts warn new pub protection rules may leave venues empty

Property industry representatives have cautioned that recent changes to planning regulations intended to protect public houses from redevelopment could inadvertently lead to a rise in empty venues across British high streets. The concerns follow the announcement of reforms by Angela Rayner, the housing secretary, which restrict the conversion of pubs into offices or housing. Under the updated National Planning Policy Framework, developers are now prohibited from changing the use of a pub unless there is no reasonable prospect of it continuing to operate. Additionally, the new rules mandate that any developer must provide evidence that the establishment has been listed for sale for a minimum of 12 months before proceeding with alternative plans.

Real Estate UK, which represents property investors and developers, has criticised the measures, arguing that the mandatory waiting period could burden town centres with disused buildings. Ion Fletcher, the policy director at the organisation, stated that a blanket ban on redevelopment for a year risks leaving pubs that have fallen into disrepair empty. He noted that this approach could delay the delivery of homes and other amenities that communities require. Fletcher emphasised that developers are not responsible for the closure of pubs, but rather unsustainable operating costs, even in cases where there is strong community support for the venue.

Legal experts have echoed these warnings, suggesting that the proposals could turn struggling establishments into stranded assets. Nick Leavey, a property lawyer at Morr & Co, explained that if a pub is no longer commercially viable but the owner cannot easily sell or redevelop it, the result may be an empty building rather than a functioning community hub. James Clark, head of planning at Foot Anstey, added that the 12-month requirement could delay regeneration projects when there is little realistic prospect of a facility returning to its former use. Other experts warned that increased signs of closure and decay could undermine efforts by Andy Burnham to rejuvenate Britain’s high streets.

Hospitality leaders have welcomed the government’s attempt to protect pubs from being taken away from their communities. Allen Simpson, chief executive of UK Hospitality, stated that while the measures are positive, the government should focus on addressing the harm done to the industry over the past two years, particularly regarding tax hikes such as business rates and national insurance. A government spokesperson responded by stating that they are strengthening protections for pubs and backing the sector with a 20 per cent cut to business rates, a tax break on poured pints, and a cap on corporation tax.