Pubs and music venues could benefit from fewer noise complaints under proposed changes to planning and licensing rules.
Under the reforms, developers seeking to build new properties near existing venues would be told to soundproof buildings, while permissions would be fast-tracked for new businesses and al fresco dining in dedicated areas.
The government hopes the changes in England and Wales will make it easier to open new bars in disused shops, promote outdoor drinking and dining, and reverse the decline in the pub industry.
Labour said the changes would bring "vibrancy" to struggling towns, but the Conservatives said tax policy was responsible for "crippling the hospitality industry".