Original article published on The Stage (07/26/18) by Matthew Hemley

The U.K. has updated licensing restrictions and closure rules directing property developers to ensure their buildings are shielded from the noise of nearby live entertainment venues. Venues have long clamored for the application of the "agent of change" principle to planning decisions. The British government has inserted a clause into the National Planning Policy Framework that protects such establishments. "Planning policies and decisions should ensure that new developments can be integrated effectively with existing businesses and community facilities (such as places of worship, pubs, music venues and sports clubs)," the clause states. "Existing businesses and facilities should not have unreasonable restrictions placed on them as a result of development permitted after they were established." The clause also stipulates that the applicant, or agent of change, has an obligation to provide suitable mitigation of potential adverse effects on an already existing business or community facility before the development has been completed. The Musicians' Union has been lobbying on the issue, given the disruption faced by live music venues.

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