Local MP Sharon Hodgson today welcomed an announcement by Minister for Pubs John Healey that extra support would be made available for struggling pubs across the country. The 12 point action plan will give practical support to pubs and comes as a welcome boost to the industry which is losing over 40 pubs a week.

New help will include £3.3 million for business support to make pubs more successful and help communities buy into struggling pubs to keep them running. Business support is also in place for struggling membership clubs, “beer ties” will be slashed and a consultation is underway on proposals to cut the requirement for music licences in certain venues. Councils will also be given new powers through the planning system to intervene before a pub is demolished, giving a pause in the system for the local community to have their say. Restrictions on sales which prevent premises continuing as pubs will be also banned. The planning laws will allow pubs to branch out their business without planning permission into new commercial ventures, ranging from restaurants to gift shops and books shops, without the additional expense and time of seeking approval from the council.

The measures will give landlords the opportunity to have direct access to specialist, tailored business advice through ‘Pub is the Hub’, currently a voluntary support service for community pubs. Government funding of over £1m will ensure that the group act as a specialist first-stop shop for advice on business support and diversification. Pub is the Hub will act as a gateway to advice, supporting pubs directly or passing them on to the most appropriate service such as Business Link.

Sharon Hodgson said:

“Like a lot of people I enjoy a glass of wine down the pub and I know what an important role pubs play in our communities. The trade has been in decline for too long and that it why I am so pleased with the Government’s announcement. I’ve been to meet local landlords who have told me about difficulties with ‘beer ties’ restricting choice for customers and also problems with organising the right licences for live music. This is good news for everybody who enjoys a night down the pub – be it for good ale, good music or just good friends.”

Pubs Minister, John Healey said:

“This package of tough, practical measures aims to put some real support behind our community pubs, giving publicans more support to diversify and punters more choice. We need and can do more to support our pubs which can be at the heart of a local community

“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.

“Pubs will receive specialist business support with a direct line through ‘Pub Is the Hub’ for a wide range of business advice and help that is readily available.

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Sharon Hodgson MP
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E-mail: hodgsons@parliament.uk

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