Listed Pub conversion plans attract objections

AWe are appalled to read that ‘the interior listing is outdated’ ...There is no planning history of any authorised alterations to the building since it was listed in 1994 and an inspection and detailed audit of the building’s interiors is essential, to determine what features still remain

PLANNING application has been submitted to turn a Stokes Croft pub into shops and apartments.

51 Stokes Croft was last occupied by pub No51 but is not currently in use, according to the documents submitted to Bristol City Council.

The application states the property is no longer seen as financially viable as a pub by the owner, who wants to turn the ground floor into two shops and the upper parts into four onebedroom apartments.

The Grade II listed building has been used as a pub since 1860 and includes a Georgian-style frontage, according to the documents, which would remain “largely unchanged” by the proposals.

The application states: “The property owner is keen to retain qualities and character of the listed building and this specifically applies to the frontage of the building complete (which represents the only remaining item of any heritage value).”

It adds: “Given the minimal nature of the changes to areas of heritage value, the location of the new intervention area with care in design and construction, we therefore conclude that the impact of the proposals will be minimal.”

However, the Montpelier Conservation Group has submitted

Montpelier Conservation Group

an objection to the proposals, stating that their understanding is that before the pandemic the pub was popular and appeared viable.

It says that the applicant has not provided the necessary evidence to justify the loss of a pub, which is a requirement under the Site Allocation and Development Management Policies (2014).

The group continues: “We are appalled to read that ‘the interior listing is outdated.

“The dogleg stair, moulded string and panelled doors etc have been removed at some stage in the past.’

“There is no planning history of any authorised alterations to the building since it was listed in 1994 and an inspection and detailed audit of the building’s interiors is essential, to determine what features still remain.

“While the unauthorised removal of the details mentioned in the listing may not have happened during the current ownership of the building, there is no time limit on enforcement action for listed buildings and responsibility rests with the current owner.

“These applications cannot be determined until this matter has been fully investigated and resolved.”

The Conservation Advisory Panel has also written to the council to object to the plans, giving similar reasons to the Montpelier Conservation Group.