UK Planning Act Changes Had No Impact On Grassroots Music Venues

Illustration (Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Following concerns over a fairly radical overhaul by the British government of the UK's planning law, the Music Venue Trust (MVT) has received confirmation that grassroots venues will not be at risk.

MVT is a British charity organization founded in January 2014 to help improve, maintain and organize music venues in the UK

Last Tuesday, Boris Johnson launched his economic recovery plan for the UK due to the COVID19 pandemic. He confirmed a new proposal that would allow developers to demolish and rebuild vacant commercial buildings.

In addition, if the empty building is rebuilt into a luxury house and the excess will also be affected.

Dubbed "the speed of the project," the proposal would also allow a variety of other commercial buildings to switch to residential functions without any planning applications.

MVT claims that the regulation is a replica of Permitted Development Rights, allowing developers to close hundreds of venues before the government finally steps in to project it in 2018.

After seeking "urgent" clarification regarding the effect of the new regulations on music venues, MVT has now confirmed that this proposal does not apply to grassroots venues.

On Twitter, they shared a response from the UK Government's Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to questions raised by Welsh Member of Parliament Kevin Brennan about whether the regulations maintain protection for grassroots venues.

Caroline Dinenage, Minister of State for Health, responded, saying, “We recognize the value of grassroots music venues and understand that this sector is facing significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period we are committed to finding the best way to protect them so that they can continue to exist as an important part of the music ecosystem, feeding this country's love of diverse cultures.

PLANNING AMENDMENTS We are pleased to confirm that Grassroots Music Venues will not be included in amendments to the planning law under the proposed 'Project Speed'. Thanks to @KevinBrennanMP for asking the question and @DCMS for the very clear answer. pic.twitter.com/OSi124K3TD

- Music Venue Trust (@musicvenuetrust) July 7, 2020

“DCMS officials have been in regular dialogue with the Ministry of Public Housing and their Local Government partners and will continue to work closely together. Changes to the planning process to support a revival of highways, announced by the Prime Minister on 30 June 2020, will also recognize the value of maintaining cultural structures such as music venues and grassroots theaters rather than encouraging changes in their use. "

Last month, MVT also warned that a fresh injection of £ 50 million was needed to prevent a permanent wave of shutdowns in the music industry. More than 500 UK music venues signed an open letter calling for funds to help stall their business until October.

Emergency loans and grants will be provided to arts, culture and heritage institutions and organizations to help them survive.