Farron calls for more protection for pubs

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has signed a parliamentary motion calling for further protection for pubs.

Tim has signed an Early Day Motion called 'Demolition and change of use of pub buildings'. He is calling for the Government to bring forward amendments to the General Permitted Development Order 1995, so that any demolition or change of use involving the loss of a pub would require planning permission.

The wording of the motion says: That this House believes that permitted development rights are leaving pubs in England vulnerable to demolition or conversion to a range of retail uses without planning permission; further believes, in light of evidence from the Campaign for Real Ale, that two pubs a week are converted to supermarkets, and that these planning loopholes are contributing to the loss of valued community amenities; is concerned that local people are being denied a say in the future of their neighbourhoods; and so urges the Government to bring forward amendments to the General Permitted Development Order 1995 so that any demolition or change of use involving the loss of a pub would require planning permission.

Tim said: "Pubs really are the hubs of our town and villages and I want to do everything we can to protect them. I hope that the Government sees this parliamentary motion and works with campaigners to protect rural pubs."