THE Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) is urging the government to change planning laws to stop pubs being converted into supermarkets.
A spokesman for Camra said: “Over the past three years, more than 200 pubs have been turned into convenience stores and 45 more are under threat.”
A survey carried out by Camra members found that, since the beginning of 2010, 130 pubs have become Tesco stores, 22 became Sainsbury’s and another 54 have been taken over by supermarkets including the Co-op, Asda and Costcutter.
Chief executive of Camra Mike Benner said: “Weak planning laws and the predatory acquisition of valued pub sites by large supermarket chains, coupled with the willingness of pub owners to cash in, are some of the biggest threats to the future of Britain’s social fabric.”
The organisation called for the closure of the loophole that allows community pubs to be demolished or converted without the need for planning consent.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here