Noise is one of the commonest threats to a venue's survival. Complaints from neighbours can lead to a licence review under the public nuisance objective, and local councils can also take statutory nuisance action under environmental protection law, which can result in abatement notices. Planning law adds another layer: the use classes system and planning permissions govern what a site can lawfully be used for, so turning a shop into a bar or extending hours may need consent. The agent of change principle, now reflected in national planning policy in England, says that whoever introduces a change should be responsible for managing its impact.
In practice, a developer building flats next to an established music venue should pay for the soundproofing, rather than the venue being shut down by new residents. Music is not the only culprit: smokers on the pavement, late deliveries, glass bottles tipped into bins at midnight and staff leaving noisily cause as many complaints. Good neighbour relations are cheaper than lawyers.
What we ask on the show
- What's the most unexpected source of noise complaints you've had?
- Does the agent of change principle actually protect venues?
- How do you build a relationship with your neighbours?
- What would you change about how planning treats hospitality?