A new fast-track approval process, simplified licensing rules, and dedicated hospitality zones aim to reduce delays, bring more cafes, bars, and music spaces to the high street, and safeguard long-standing venues from noise complaints.
Propertymark’s position
This package of reforms addresses longstanding barriers to high street renewal. Propertymark has called for national consistency, greater flexibility, and stronger enforcement tools, all of which are now being actioned.
The new measures align with the existing High Street Rental Auctions scheme (HRSA), which enables councils to lease commercial premises that have been vacant for more than 12 months. Propertymark has supported this initiative and continues to promote the role of commercial agents in delivering viable, long-term lets. We’re monitoring the impact of the scheme to ensure it doesn’t artificially depress rents.
High street auctions set to fill empty properties
The UK Government has announced that new powers to enable local authorities in England to regenerate high streets and fill empty shops will be in place by summer 2024. Propertymark welcomes the move, but we would like to see more detail on which areas will benefit the most, how the powers will be funded, and how they will be used in practice by councils.
Streamlined licensing for hospitality
A new National Licensing Policy Framework will standardise the process for securing licences across England. By removing inconsistent local requirements, the UK Government aims to reduce delays for small businesses wanting to open venues such as cafes, bars and community hubs.
Designated hospitality zones will allow faster approvals for alfresco dining, street events, and extended trading hours. These areas will provide councils more flexibility to encourage activity in high streets and public spaces, while reducing the red tape that consistently hinders operators.
FAQs: Amendments to Use Classes
An amendment has been made to the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987, to make significant changes to the Use Classes system in England.
Safeguards for existing venues
As part of the reforms, the Agent of Change principle — which states that planning decisions should ensure new development can be integrated effectively with existing communities — will be embedded into national policy. This will make developers responsible for mitigating sound impacts when building new homes near established pubs, clubs or music venues, helping protect them from complaints linked to new residential developments.
