From 06 April 2016 local planning authorities will have to consider noise impacts on new residents from existing businesses, under an amended permitted development right that allows offices to be converted to residential use, without the need to obtain planning permission.
The amended Order means developers will now need to seek prior approval from the local planning authority that any noise mitigation measures proposed are suitable to ensure that nearby theatres are protected before a change of use from an office to residential building can be carried out.
Theatres Trust said, "The Trust welcomes the changes to the Permitted Development Order to help protect the nation's theatres. It provides an opportunity to engage with developers and ensure, in terms of potential noise impacts, that new housing can be delivered while protecting the viability of theatres and live performance venues."
The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) (Amendment) Order 2016 was presented to Parliament on 11 March 2016 and will come into effect from 06 April 2016. The amending Order can be found here.
As the statutory body for the protection of theatre buildings the Theatres Trust works to secure better planning regulations to ensure the future viability of live theatre. Contact us for advice and guidance If your theatre is adversely affected by adjacent developments.
(Jim Evans)
