Government offers practical help for pubs

UK Pubs minister John Healey has announced a £4 million action plan to support community pubs.

At the heart of the 12 point programme lies a £3.3m injection for “business support” over a three year period. Over £1m has been put towards “Pub is the Hub”, to ensure that this existing voluntary support service can act as a specialist port of call for advice on business support and diversification.

In a further effort to help pubs to diversify their offer, the government has promised to relax planning regulations to allow new commercial ventures such as restaurants, gift shops and book stores to be added without the need for council approval.

Councils will receive new powers through the planning system to allow communities to have their say before a pub is demolished, with funding directed to help these to buy into struggling locals and keep them running.

A consultation is also underway on proposals to cut the requirement for music licences in certain venues.

Announcing these plans last Thursday, Healey explained: "Today’s measures are a much needed shot in the arm for publicans in these tough times. They will make it easier to diversify, lower costs and cut red tape when it comes to branching out.

“It is also a boost for local communities, giving them a greater stake in the future of their local pubs often so important in bringing people together.”

In a further move to support the pub industry, the government will support a move to relax beer ties, promising legislation to enforce a more open market if necessary.

The government also plans to carry out further independent studies on the pub sector in an effort to identify areas where additional support can be offered. These studies will examine ownership and management issues, as well as skills needed within the industry.

Both reviews are due to be presented to the government by the end of 2010.

Gabriel Savage, 23.03.2010