Supermarket chain eyeing former pub

Members of the Friends of Almondbury Village raised concerns over the initial pub development plans, and are pictured outside the Rose and Crown, Northgate, Almondbury some time to sort it out. It has almost reached its conclusion.”

Alec Michael, a partner with Leeds-based chartered surveyors, Michael Steel & Co, said: “A national retailer has been extremely interested in relocating to the site for some time and discussions with this party can now be advanced in the knowledge planning has been dealt with.

“During the planning process other interest has been received for a variety of possible uses and schemes.

”We are shortly to commence our search for other retailers to occupy the two smaller units and are confident of good demand from local, regional and even national operators.

“It is anticipated the long overdue development of this site will be welcomed by residents, the local authority along with the site owner.”

A spokesman for the Co-op said: “We can confirm that we are considering properties in this area but are unable to comment on specific sites at this time.”

Kirklees councillor Bernard McGuin (Almondbury) said: “I hope the decision means that we are near the end of the Rose and Crown saga.

“The people of Almondbury have been very patient, watching this prime site in the village deteriorate.

“The building is the gateway to Almondbury.

“I hope the final result of the development will set off the rest of the conservation area in the village.

Chris Marsden, chairman of Huddersfield Civic Society, said: “It’s a fascinating case.

“The application for this site has had such a long history.

“The listed pub is now to be preserved with new-build to the side and back.”