Victory For UK Music Venues Against Developers

The music industry is hailing a major victory after ministers vowed to change planning rules in England to protect venues from complaints about noise.

A group of people are watching a show at a little south event

Stars including Sir Paul McCartney warned venues forced to pay for soundproofing neighbouring properties could be driven out of business.

Communities Secretary Sajid Javid said the rule, which applies to new housing schemes, was an "unfair burden".

And he said the government would "right this wrong".


Developers will now have to address noise issues if they opt to build homes near a long-established venue.

Industry bodies have said that under current laws, venues are facing "an avalanche of cases" in which residents of new developments were complaining about noise pollution after moving in.


"Unfair burden"

The Music Venue Trust said some venues, as well as other community and cultural organisations, were at risk of closure as a result of what it said was a legal anomaly allowing people to move next door to a premises and demand that noise generated by it be stopped.

The problem, it has warned, was not confined to music, with complaints being made about the ringing of church bells as well as about noise emanating from speedway stadiums and even farms.

In response to a long campaign by the industry - backed by a cross-party group of MPs - ministers have agreed to reflect what is known as the Agent of Change of Principle in the National Planning Policy Framework - with which developers in England must comply.


This states that the person or business responsible for making a change, such as building near an existing premises, is responsible for managing the impact of the change.

Ministers said planning policy will be strengthened, following a consultation, so that decisions on where to locate new developments will take account of existing businesses.

In future, if developers are given permission to build near an existing premises, they will be responsible for identifying and solving any sound issues.

Housing Secretary Sajid Javid said it was "wrong" that entertainment venues were having to make expensive changes to their business arising from developments outside their control.

"I have always thought it unfair that the burden is on long-standing music venues to solve noise issues when property developers choose to build nearby," he said.

"I am pleased to finally have an opportunity to right this wrong and also give more peace of mind to new residents moving into local projects."

UK Music, which is led by former Labour MP Michael Dugher, thanked all those within the industry and in Parliament who had supported their campaign.



Credit: BBC

The little south logo is on a blue background.

Written by

Editorial Team • 22 October 2018
by Editorial Team 12 June 2025
Lee Drift is a well-known artist across the South West and has gained international attention through his performances worldwide. With this episode he returns to create a summer podcast mix featuring his distinctive tech house sound. Lee discusses his upcoming summer plans, which include the release of new music on WildCard Records and an intention to expand his live DJ sets throughout the region.
by Editorial Team 31 May 2025
We welcome no stranger to the South West house music habitat, James Farley who creates the warm foundations with his latest podcast mix. Here James talks about the highlights of his year such as visiting Amsterdam's ADE festival and his exciting summer playing for DancersHip and Sewann events in Plymouth. This episode is slick as ever and full of fine house music.
by Editorial Team 15 May 2025
Danae B presents a notable house music mix that includes several firm favourite tracks. We catch up where she revealed that she is currently working with a vocalist to enhance the experience of her live DJ sets.
by Editorial Team 7 May 2025
On August 2nd, 2025, the Guillemot venue in Westward Ho! will host a special event featuring prominent figures in the Jungle and Drum and Bass music scenes, Fabio and Grooverider. This evening is being organised by Devon Sessions and will showcase the distinctive sounds that characterised late 80s and early 90s jungle, bringing a nostalgic experience to the North Devon coast.
by Editorial Team 2 May 2025
Lady C is bringing you an incredible house mix that's perfect for soaking up the summer ambience, whether you're chilling outside in the sun or by the sparkling Cornish sea! This slick house mix is infused with polished 80's synth influences and highlights her love for the saxophone within a tune. But that's not all, Lady C is also diving into her own music production and has some tracks in the works!
by Editorial Team 28 April 2025
Sick & Naughty Records, known for organising a variety of successful drum and bass events in the South West, has announced the return of its renowned boat parties in Falmouth on June 21st, 2025. These events have historically attracted a significant following, featuring performances from notable D&B residents such as Devinyl, Leroy, and Hopeso keeping things afloat.
Show More