Pubs and venues to be protected from noise complaints

Pubs and music venues will be given protection from noise complaints under planned changes to licensing rules.

Under the reforms, developers seeking to build near venues would be told to soundproof buildings, while permissions would be fast-tracked for new businesses or expanded outdoor areas in designated locations.

The government hopes the changes will also make it easier to open new bars in disused shops, as well as promote outdoor drinking, al fresco dining and live performances.

While the government said the changes would bring “vibrancy” to struggling town centres, the Conservatives said Labour’s tax policy was responsible for “crippling the hospitality industry” in the first place.

It comes after several well-loved pubs and music venue were left facing possible closure over noise…