The study examined all new planning applications submitted during last three months of 2012 involving significant construction work for new or existing bars, cafes and restaurants. The analysis revealed that wholly new food and drink establishments comprised over two thirds of all new plans – with extensions or refurbishment of existing premises making up the remainder.
“Whilst there is never an absolute straight line between new plans and new openings, the data provides evidence of real confidence in the hospitality sector” comments Paul Graham at Planning Pipe. “It’s the first time this kind of analysis has been undertaken, so we can’t look at trends yet. But there is clearly a picture of growth – with 50 new establishments submitted for planning approval every working day across the UK.”
The Planning Pipe data also reveals the shape of construction activity in the sector – with planned work relatively evenly split between refurbishment, new build and new conversion. “While there are few surprises in where the work is planned, for those targeting new construction projects in the restaurant sector, this data gives an insight into what type of work to target,” Paul adds.
