Boaters object to controversial pub plans

THE campaign to save a popular boaters’ pub from being converted into a private home has been gathering momentum with objectors being urged to write to planners.

An application for planning permission will be determined by East Cambridgeshire District Council in respect of the Lazy Otter beside the River Great Ouse at Stretham near Ely. This has been out to consultation and the deadline for determination is Tuesday, June 14.

Opponents to the pub’s closure have described it as ‘an integral part of the community for users of the River Ouse’.

One letter stated: “The Lazy Otter is realistically the only pub that a boat can reach on its first day and the only one in returning distance on the last day. The pub has been a great attraction for holidaying boaters for many years.”

A petition started by former pub manager Georgina Radford had attracted more than 800 signatures at the time of going to press. As reported in our March edition she said: “The pub was a great place for families to gather with a park for the children and gorgeous riverside views.”