New law to protect music venues backed by Rotherham MP

MP Sarah Champion has backed the introduction of the a new planning law aimed to protect music venues. 

The Planning (Agent of Change) Bill presented by John Spellar MP to the House of Commons would mean that developers would have to take account of the impact of any new scheme on pre-existing businesses like music venues before going with their plans. 

There has been a 35 per cent decline in grassroots music venues in the UK over the last decad and industry body UK Music has warned that existing planning laws are often a key factor struggling music venues must contend with.

Ms Champion MP said: “I welcome the introduction of the Bill as a vital means of protecting the future of our best-loved grassroots music venues. 

“All too often planning laws have placed unreasonable demands on small venues, threatening the development of our world class music industry. 

“I am pleased that this Bill recognises the challenges that music venues face. I call on the Government to secure its speedy passage into law.”