With the changes taking effect next week, cultural
institutions across England will be saved from being
redeveloped or demolished.
These buildings cannot be easily replaced and are an
intrinsic part of our cultural heritage, which is why the
government is clear that temporary social distancing
restrictions should not be an excuse for them to be
permanently lost.
Councils will now need to take the temporary impact of
coronavirus into account when considering permission for
change of use, redevelopment or demolition of a theatre,
concert hall or live music performance venue.
This move, alongside the £1.57 billion investment to
protect Britain’s cultural, arts and heritage sector,
provides extra security to businesses as they make plans
to re-open their premises when is it safe to do so, and
in the meantime continue to share their talent and
passion for the arts outdoors and virtually.
Housing and Communities Secretary, Rt Hon MP said:
Our theatres, concert halls and live music performance
venues are the envy of the world and are central to our
cultural heritage.
That’s why we’re investing £1.57 billion to protect
Britain’s cultural, arts and heritage institutions, as
well as ensuring these buildings aren’t destroyed.
It is vital they are properly protected by the planning
system for both people today to enjoy and future
generations.
Jon Morgan, Director of the Theatres Trust, said:
We welcome the news of revisions to the planning
system, which reinforce and increase protections for
our treasured theatres and provide reassurance for the
communities that use and value them.
The COVID-19 lockdown has rendered otherwise vibrant
theatres vulnerable to permanent closure and we have
already seen a number of theatres fall vacant due to
the operator going into liquidation.
These measures will help ensure these vital community
assets are protected during the current crisis and can
be revived to serve their local communities once again.
Once introduced, this policy will remain in place until
31 December 2022.
A written ministerial statement will be laid to outline
the planning changes and will have immediate effect on
the planning system.
Find out more about the next steps for
re-opening the performing arts industry.
Find our more information on the £1.57 billion
investment to protect Britain’s cultural, arts and
heritage institutions.
