Plans to transform a 'rough' former pub into a set of flats have been welcomed by people in a Nottinghamshire town. The Yew Tree, in Hucknall, closed in February and it is hoped nine flats will take its place.
Proposals for the project were put forward by LGG Global Limited and the firm says the development should 'support the transition to a low carbon future in a changing climate'. Among those welcoming the plans was sales assistant Elle Jared, 28, who lives in the town.
She said: "It’s not the prettiest sight. If I lived on Beardall, I would be a bit concerned about new flats because of the parking but at the same time, I’d be happy not to have this [the pub] plonked at the end of my street.”
She added: "It wasn’t the worst pub in the world but it was a bit rough.” Allan Gardener, 59, said: “It was a good pub when it first opened with alright prices and staff but then it got worse and a bit rowdy.
“I don’t live too far from the pub but it’s nice to know that something’s hopefully going to be done for it. It can’t stay a closed pub forever.”
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A fellow resident, who asked to be anonymous, added: “It’s been a rubbish pub ever since I was a kid. I think that the parking will be fine, people who don’t live on the street park here all the time.
“I’m not against it. People want to live in Hucknall.”
Andrew Ludlow, the Secretary for Nottingham CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) remembers the pub well and feels it is a shame it could not be brought back as a drinking venue. But he added: "Over the years whilst the other Hucknall pubs embraced the future, the Yew Tree was stuck in the past and footfall fell away. I used to drink in the pub when it had real ale and at one point it was the only local pub offering Lincoln Green brewery beers.
“On my last visit the handpull looked as forlorn as the pub and a lack of custom has led to its closure. It is a shame to see it go particularly as with a small amount of investment it could certainly be turned round and become a successful pub.
Not everybody in Hucknall has welcomed the plans. Ashfield Independents councillor Lee Waters, who covers Hucknall North for Ashfield DIstrict Council, described the development as 'inappropriate' for the area.
He is concerned about the development being created where some of Hucknall's busiest streets meet - Portland Road, Nottingham Road and Beardall Street.
Councillor Waters, who has ‘called in’ for the application to be reviewed and voted on, said: “Parking is already a huge problem in the area (particularly Beardall Street and Henry Street), of which the proposed development will further negatively impact the residents, infrastructure, amenities and existing businesses on Beardall Street due to the increased need for further parking.”
“A petition for a residents only parking scheme has already been conducted in the area which is still in consideration with Nottinghamshire County Council, and shows the strength of feeling in the area due to the current lack of on-street parking provision. These 9 flats would further exacerbate the problem.
“Furthermore, yellow lines have been budgeted for by Nottinghamshire County Council, in front of Warburton Court on Beardall Street. Therefore the proposed 9 flats would in my view further increase parking issues alongside Beardall Street and up to Henry Street. For these reasons, I object and call in the application.”
The developer was approached for comment
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