While current permitted development rights allow the change of use from drinking establishments without the need for a planning application, planning reforms already enable local authorities and local communities to remove these permitted development rights when they deem it appropriate and protect local assets.
Since 6 April, however, the listing of a pub as an Asset of Community Value triggers a removal of the national permitted development rights for the change of use or demolition of those pubs premises. This will lead to more pubs becoming Assets of Community Value and provide the right balance between protecting pubs, while avoiding blanket regulation which would lead to more empty and boarded up buildings.