Pub company Punch has announced its intention to support the campaign for permitted development rights, but has cautioned against the “unforeseen consequences” of rushed legislation.

Following the recent announcement by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) confirming support for the amendment, requiring planning permission to be granted prior to change of use of a pub, Punch has indicated that it will give support to the overall principle of the bill.

Punch logoChief executive, Duncan Garrood, said: “Further protections for pubs which mean that change of use applications are open, transparent and approved in line with facts are very welcome, and we at Punch will actively support the proposal.

“What we would ask is that any legislation is well thought through and doesn’t create unforeseen consequences. For example, if a pub wanted to change to a more food orientated offer, we would hope that they wouldn’t require permissions to achieve that.

“I don’t think that would be anyone’s intention, but bad legislation can create bureaucracy that no-one, be it freeholders, pub companies, campaign groups or consumers, ever wanted. We would be happy to help in any way we can.”

Punch has confirmed that it would like to work constructively with DCLG officials as well as campaigners to ensure that regulations are applied consistently across the country.

As well as supporting permitted development rights, Punch also called for the government to address the significant imbalance and unfairness in the tax burden faced by pubs.

Duncan added: “As we indicated at the time, we welcomed the support on business rates shown by the Chancellor in the last Budget, but would urge the promised review to begin as soon as possible.

“This is urgently needed if the huge imbalance in the tax burden faced by pubs is to be addressed, especially in light of the duty increase.

“Pubs are a force for good in the UK. We are not asking for special treatment but rather that all parts of a diverse economy pay their way. We want fairness for an industry which brings communities together, and one which Government tells us is hugely valued.”