CAMRA calls for greater pub protection

Permanent measures to keep pubs open need to be brought in by the government, CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, says as it marks the fact that 2,000 pubs have successfully won Asset of Community Value (ACV) status.

Following legislation in 2015 that removed Permitted Development Rights from pubs nominated as ACVs, community groups have spent many hours fighting to ensure their locals are registered and are subject to the regular planning application process, CAMRA says. Without registration, pubs can be demolished or converted for other use without public consultation.

ACVs can be granted on any building that has a strong community process, but pubs have had by far the biggest take up by local communities.

CAMRA has called on the government to cut out this “frustrating process that puts a huge burden on local communities and councils”. The campaign believes pubs should be put in a class of their own so that owners must seek planning permission before conversion or demolition.

*Pictured, the Plough, Sandygate, Sheffield, which Sainsbury’s wants to turn into a retail outlet. Local people, with MP Nick Clegg, are seen showing their support for the pub. Sheffield Council is still considering Sainsbury’s application.