Planning consultant launches planning guide for publicans

Ian Butter devised the guide because he believes there is not enough information in one place for licensees to access.

The Publican’s Guide to Town Planning explains when planning permission is or is not required; information on listed building and conservation areas; planning conditions; enforcement; use classes; change of use; temporary buildings and much more.

“When you look online, there are particular sectors with very little information [about the planning system],” said Butter.

“[The guide] is there as an aid to pubs that could land themselves in difficulty. It’s simple things like outdoor smoking shelters.”

He added: “Pubs are very topical at the moment and it’s all too easy to fall foul of the planning system.

“The pub trade is one of those areas that does not get enough attention in planning.”

Butter pointed out that, as a lot of pubs are located in conservation areas, or are listed buildings, planning rules can change, so the guide includes the specific information.

In the guide, he wrote: “Unwary publicans can find themselves rapidly caught up in complaints and enforcement procedures for even the most minor of planning issues.

“My aim is not to rehearse the whole planning system, but I hope this guide will provide some pointers to the current planning system, outline those things you can do without the need for planning permission, and those that you cannot.”

Take a look at www.ruralurbanplanning.co.uk​ to view the full guide.