With the announcement today by Sajid Javid that the government will adopt as policy John Spellar's private members bill Agent of Change, the Adam Smith Institute says it's great news for the night-time economy and potentially those looking for new developments too.
Daniel Pryor, Head of Programmes at the Adam Smith Institute, welcomed the move saying:
"Today’s announcement that housing developers, not music venues, will now be responsible for addressing noise issues is fantastic news for the night-time economy.
"Our music venues provide entertainment for millions and contribute £4.4 billion to the economy, but current rules damage the success of this vibrant industry by imposing unfair compliance costs on noise reduction. The Agent of Change reforms, brought to the House by Labour MP John Spellar and announced to be government policy today by Sajid Javid, are eminently reasonable and show bipartisanship at its best. If you want to develop near a long-standing music venue, you should be the one to address potential noise issues.
"It will also benefit those struggling to pay rent, and potentially those looking to get on the housing ladder. Easing the burden on music venues will also encourage them to support development in local areas, since they no longer have to bare the cost of noise reduction or threats of closure. This will give a boost to housing supply at a time when it’s sorely needed."
If you'd like to arrange an interview please get in contact with Matt Kilcoyne (via email matt@adamsmith.org) or phone (07584778207).