Beware of the law of 'unintended consequences'

The Government this week announced its plans to force anyone wishing to demolish or convert a pub listed as an asset of community value to first seek planning permission. The move was seen by many as an 11th hour attempt to thwart rebel MPs who wanted to amend the infrastructure bill to ensure plans to convert or demolish any pub would first have to seek planning consent. If so, the Government’s plans worked as the amendment was defeated. Mike Berry examines the task now facing the Government in making their promise a reality.