Camra focuses on saving Cask (From Evesham Journal)

Camra focuses on saving Cask

11:53am Thursday 29th March 2007

• Print
• Email
• Share

PLANS to close a popular Pershore pub and convert the site into apartments have led to a storm of protest.

More than a dozen complaints have already been received by Wychavon District Council.

Licensee Spence Cooper plans to turn to Grade II listed pub into a complex of two one-bedroom and five two-bedroom flats, with a maisonette.

The protest is orchestrated by the Campaign for Real Ale in Worcestershire which has vowed to do everything it can to keep the pub open.

CAMRA branch spokesman Peter Bottomley said: "Spence Cooper has done a really marvellous job over the years to run a thriving pub business with many completely unique features.

"It is therefore a great regret to CAMRA that he has chosen to apply for listed building consent and planning permission to close the pub and convert it into private dwellings, effectively throwing away all the heard work he has expended.

"Grade II listed public houses are part of the UK's national heritage. They are cared for over the years by a number of landlords, each of whom is but a temporary custodian of this valuable asset.

"None of these custodians have the right to destroy that which they momentarily care for simply to make money.

"Planning guidance issued by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and local planning appeal case law makes it clear that the historic role of a building is a fundamental part of the listing criteria, and the expectation is that buildings should continue in that historic role wherever possible.

"The Brandy Cask has been licenced to sell alcohol since 1779 and there is absolutely no reason why the official guidance should be ignored."

Although the decision on his application can be delegated to council planning officials without any debate by members, ward councillors Gaynor Amphlett, John Grantham and Charles Tucker can call it in for committee discussion if they decide it warrants it.

Cllr Tucker said they had held informal discussions and added: "I think we would like to see this decision taken in committee after full discussion."

Mr Cooper was on holiday this week and unavailable for comment.

• Print
• Email
• Share