Brigid Simmonds, BBPA Chief Executive, comments:
“We will be responding to the consultation in detail, but given the evolution of pubs, with much more focus on food, there is little sense in having a different definition for a pub (A4) from a restaurant (A3), which is a point we will raise. The two are very interchangeable in the modern market, but we respect the right of local authorities wanting to ensure that safeguards are in place for new drinking establishments.
“We would welcome more flexibility to help the future high street develop and are pleased that no further restrictions are proposed within the A class. We continue to support the community right to bid and listing of premises, as the right way to protect genuine community pubs.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/technical-consultation-on-planning
The British Beer & Pub Association is the leading body representing Britain’s brewers and pub companies. The Association is more than a century old and was originally founded as the Brewers’ Society in 1904. Our members account for some 96 per cent of beer brewed in Britain today, and own around 20,000 of the nation’s pubs.
For further information please contact:
David Wilson: Public Affairs Director Tel: 020 7627 9151
Gareth Barrett, Public Affairs Manager Tel: (020) 7627 9154
Neil Williams