Wandsworth Council is now consulting on draft planning guidance which would give pubs and bars in Wandsworth a greater level of protection from redevelopment.

Residents, businesses and other organisations have until Friday 14th November to have their say on the proposals. All feedback received will be reviewed before a finalised version of the planning document is put before councillors.

If approved, the guidance would build on policies in Wandsworth’s Local Plan and give the council new grounds on which to refuse planning applications to redevelop or change the use of local pubs which have a heritage or community value.

‘Permitted development rights’ would then be removed from pubs which meet the criteria so owners would need to apply for permission before knocking them down or changing them into shops or homes.

The council’s draft ‘Supplementary Planning Document’ also proposes introducing a limit on the number of fast food takeaways which could open within 400metres of local schools and colleges. It also proposes to restrict the number of new betting shops.

The council has also opened a public consultation on amendments to the borough’s Local Plan and another Supplementary Planning Document which provides guidance on developer planning obligations. These documents have been revised following feedback received in the previous round of consultation. 

Responses must be made by November 1th4 on the planning obligations document and town centre uses document, and by November 28th on the Local Plan.  

Respondents need to make it clear which documents they are providing comments on.

Deputy council leader Jonathan Cook said: "There has been huge interest in protecting local pubs and this draft planning guidance has come in direct response to our residents’ concerns. Fast food takeaways opening around our schools is another extremely important local issue and I encourage residents to make their views heard during this consultation.

“We are also asking for feedback on the latest revisions to our Local Plan and the Supplementary Planning Document on planning obligations. These documents will guide the borough’s future development and it’s important local residents and community groups have their say.”