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Proposed Changes to Planning Rules Seriously Impact Theatres
The Theatres Trust has highlighted that key proposed amendments to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) would significantly weaken the protection for theatres in the planning system. Considered alongside the proposal to remove Theatres Trust as a statutory consultee, there could be serious consequences for cultural infrastructure in England if these amendments are adopted.
They note:
The section on “Retention of key community facilities and public service infrastructure” (HC6) is now weaker than many local plans and the existing NPPF – and crucially does not include cultural buildings in the list of uses to which the policy explicitly applies.
This omission could be an oversight, but just as troubling is that the protection policy only applies where a building is the last of its type in its local area. So, if there is another theatre in your area, your building would not be protected. It wouldn’t matter that you operate at different scales, have a completely different programme or serve different audiences.
The Government is holding a public consultation open until 10 March 2026. The Friends have commented on the proposals and it would be good if many others did too. Please make your own comments and spread the word.
There is guidance on the Theatres Trust website.
The Theatres Trust is supporting the Friends in our campaign to save Streatham Hill Theatre.
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