After more than 200 years of providing service to the local people and visitors a Government Planning Inspector has ruled that the historic Red House in Whitchurch can be turned into two residential dwellings.
But time is moving on and the building continues to deteriorate.
The Red House is a Grade II Listed building within the Whitchurch Conservation Area and was a registered Asset of Community Value meeting many of the social and economic needs of the town.
However, in considering the application for a Change of Use the Inspector stated:
Evidence before me demonstrates that there is ample alternative provision within Whitchurch. Whilst other pubs in the town may not have a family garden or play facilities, they provide a very similar offer to that which was provided at the appeal building.
Additionally, other businesses provide additional restaurant and takeaway options, and there are other venues available for meeting and socialising in a manner that would meet community needs and support well-being. I am therefore unable to accept that it is necessary for the existing business to remain open to meet an essential need that is not adequately provided elsewhere within the town.Major blow to local amenity protection
It is suggested that the use of the building could be adapted to provide a reduced pub offer or some format of community hub, with the potential for the part conversion of the building. There is however nothing to suggest that there is a demand or need to retain the building in this format.
This decision is a major blow to those who wish to see the Whitchurch become a town that can provide adequate services to its residents. With major housing developments planned that would expand the town the need to retain existing amenities is seen to be essential.
The owner is always a custodian of a pub's value
When someone takes on a public house they also become a custodian of a social amenity for the community. The present owners are now converting that community value into finance for their own personal benefit, a process many consider should not be permitted.
