Pubs and live music venues in England and Wales could soon face fewer noise complaints, thanks to proposed changes in planning and licensing laws.
Under the new proposals, developers who want to build near existing venues would be required to soundproof their properties. The plans also include fast-tracked approvals for opening new businesses and setting up outdoor dining in designated areas.
The government says these reforms are intended to make it easier to open bars in vacant shops, encourage al fresco drinking and dining, and help reverse the steady decline of the pub industry.
Labour supports the changes, claiming they would bring "vibrancy" back to struggling towns. However, the Conservatives argue that high taxes—not red tape—are what's really hurting the hospitality sector.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury James Murray said Labour is committed to cutting red tape that prevents cafes, pubs, and music venues from opening. He acknowledged that some government policies—such as higher National Insurance and an increased Minimum Wage—also have business implications.
The British Beer and Pub Association reports a continuous decline in UK pubs since 2000. It predicts that 378 pubs will close in 2025, potentially resulting in over 5,600 job losses across England, Wales, and Scotland.
The reforms come after several beloved venues faced potential closure due to noise complaints. Last year, east London’s Moth Club launched a petition against a nearby housing development, fearing noise restrictions could force them to shut down. “Without being able to make noise, we can’t make money,” the venue’s manager told the BBC.
In Manchester, the Night and Day Café fought a three-year legal battle after a neighbour filed a noise complaint in 2021. The venue was eventually allowed to stay open with noise-limiting conditions.
On Tuesday, Brewdog became the latest casualty of tough market conditions, announcing the closure of 10 UK bars, citing rising costs, increased regulation, and economic pressures.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said, “Pubs and bars are at the heart of British life,” as the government launched a public consultation on the proposed changes. “For too long, they've been stifled by outdated rules. We’re scrapping them to protect pavement pints, outdoor dining, and street parties—not just in summer, but all year round.”
Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith criticized Labour’s stance, calling it “hypocrisy.” He accused the party of harming the sector with higher business rates and excessive employment regulations. Photo by Paul the Archivist, Wikimedia commons.