The hospitality sector’s long been at the sharp end of economic turbulence – buffeted by rising energy prices, minimum wage increase, squeezed consumer spending, and the scars of Covid-19 lockdowns. In that context, the government’s recent proposals to support pubs, music venues and cafés through targeted planning and licensing reforms appear to offer a timely and very welcome, intervention.

From the perspective of a planning consultancy that works extensively across the hospitality sector, Boyer supports these proposals. We believe that it is a step in the right direction and if fully implemented could make a meaningful difference not only to individual businesses but to the character, culture and economy of our town and city centres.

New flexibility for old spaces
At the heart of the proposals is the idea of revitalisation – breathing new life into disused shops and injecting vibrancy into our high streets. The principle of this transformation of the high street is already underway as part of the recent introduction of the High Street Rental Auction Scheme, which allows councils to auction off leases for commercial properties that have been vacant for over a year. When this was first announced, Boyer raised some scepticism on this approach, and the uptake and success is still yet to be demonstrated.

In this context, the proposed ‘hospitality zones’ would allow faster-track permissions for converting vacant retail units into bars or live music venues, while simplifying the process for outdoor dining and street parties alongside the High Street Rental Auction Scheme.

The popularity of alfresco hospitality in the wake of the pandemic demonstrated what is possible when restrictions are eased. Exceptional early summer weather this year has only reinforced the importance of outdoor seating for bars, restaurants and cafés. Maximising outdoor space means maximising profitability – and with the right consents, this can be done quickly, cost-effectively and with considerable creativity.