England to introduce new planning protections for pubs

The UK government is set to introduce new planning protections in England to prevent pubs from being converted into housing or offices. Under the updated National Planning Policy Framework, developers seeking a change of use must demonstrate that there is no realistic prospect of the site continuing to operate as a pub. This includes providing evidence that the property has been actively marketed as a going concern for at least 12 months.

This policy shift expands upon previous proposals that only protected the last remaining pub in a specific area. Following warnings from hospitality groups, the new rules will apply to any pub facing conversion. Local authorities will also be required to assess the social value and community impact of a pub before approving redevelopment applications.

The reforms arrive as the hospitality sector faces significant pressure from rising costs, including business rates, minimum wage increases, and National Insurance contributions. Data from the Campaign for Real Ale indicates that nearly 800 pubs have closed in England so far this year, with dozens lost to demolition or conversion.