Planning applications near theatres

Theatre operators and owners are advised to look out for planning applications near their venues and let us know so we can comment formally.

As a statutory consultee in the planning system, local authorities must consult with the Theatres Trust when planning applications are submitted for ‘land on which there is a theatre’. 

Unfortunately, there is no obligation for us to be consulted about developments on nearby land except in Wales and we often only hear about concerning developments from theatres or community groups. We would therefore strongly encourage theatre owners and operators to be aware of planning activity around their venues and take immediate action, including letting us know so we can also make representations, drawing on our experience of other cases.

Recent changes to the planning system in England make this particularly important. There is now greater flexibility for change of use of buildings in town centres (mainly from retail to residential) without requiring full planning permission. The consideration and management of noise impacts can restrict these automatic rights so it is vital that concerns about potential conflicts are highlighted are submitted during the limited time frame before a development can proceed without restriction.

A proposal of this type came forward recently involving the conversion of offices adjoining the Muni Theatre in Colne. Following our comments, the overall development was given permission but contained planning conditions on the particular flats of concern. Generally, conditions include applicants having to fund and provide sufficient mitigation, or development not being allowed to proceed at all. This demonstrates the value and importance of our involvement.

Photo credit: Muni Theatre in Colne by Ian Grundy