Plan to turn pub into bedsits
CONCERNS VOICED OVER SCHEME TO CONVERT LISTED OLD BLUE BELL INTO 15-BED PROPERTY
CONCERNS have been raised over plans to convert a derelict, Grade-ii listed Nottinghamshire pub into a 15-bed property for multiple people.
Proposals have been lodged with Ashfield District Council to bring new life to the former Old Blue Bell pub in Lammas Road, Sutton-inashfield.
If approved, it would see the listed pub transformed into the 15-bed house in multiple occupancy (HMO), with 15 bedrooms fitted with their own en-suite bathrooms.
Under the plans, a nearby garage would also be demolished to make room for five parking spaces and “outdoor amenity”, as well as a rack for storing bicycles.
However, fears have been raised by members of the local community over the plans, with residents voicing concerns over traffic and potential “trouble”.
Anne Hazel, who has a relative living nearby, submitted an objection to the council and fears the HMO will add to a “very congested” area.
She said: “I have a relative who lives two properties away from this proposal. Traffic here is very congested and entry and exit onto the roundabout is difficult.
“There is no parking available near the proposed property and it only provides five car parking spaces for 15 proposed dwellings.
“This will add to parking issues in the area, as well as traffic issues.”
Others raised fears about the potential for an increase in crime across the area, which is close to Sutton-in-ashfield town centre.
Rachel Staton lives a few doors down from the “tired” looking former pub in Priestic Road and says she plans to start a petition against the proposal.
She said: “I received a planning application through the post for the proposal of 15 bedsits, this is my worst nightmare to have this next door to me.”
She added: “I do not want this to happen and neither do many others, I know it’s a tired building but please do not let this happen Ashfield District Council. Listen to the people, stop letting us down. I will be getting a petition against this.”
Tray Greatorex, who helps run the community group in the nearby Carsic estate, also raised concerns and believes the pub should be preserved as a museum. She said: “In my opinion the pub should be turned into a museum, its part of our history with the town and could benefit our local historians to have it as a museum.
“I do think it would go down well with Sutton residents.”
However, in the plans, developers say the HMO will attract “additional economically-active residents” into the town.
And developers believe improving the “redundant” former pub will also bring benefits to the town centre itself. A spokesperson for the developer said: “The creation of a 15-bed HMO on the site will attract additional economically active residents into the town centre.
“This should help to increase local expenditure, and thus create economic opportunities for local businesses.
“The proposed scheme will bring a building that has remained redundant for nearly a decade into a viable use.”