Go-ahead for holiday rooms plan at Oliver Twist pub and restaurant in Guyhirn

Owners of a village pub and restaurant have been granted permission to convert part of its dining room into four en-suite holiday lets.

The application by Mr J Spencer, who owns and runs the Oliver Twist in Guyhirn, was approved under officer’s delegated powers this week.

A design, access, and flood risk assessment statement drawn up in support of the application by Swann Edwards Architects, argued the proposal was in line with Fenland District Council’s planning policies which include the promotion of tourism in the area.

It explained: “The proposal would result in the diversification of the existing business which would help to sustain that business and would provide a tourist facility.

“This would be of significant benefit to the local economy, thereby providing a wider sustainability benefit. The scheme would change the use of the existing building with limited physical alterations proposed.”

It added: “Although some of the restaurant will be lost, a bar/restaurant area will still remain and there will be an added benefit to the property in that further tourist accommodation will be provided in the village.”

The pub and restaurant already have guest rooms on site.

An officer's report said the proposal would not impact on neighbours as the change of use will not result in significant additional noise or light pollution.

The application was supported by a number of villagers as well as the parish council.

One supporter said: “I am writing in wholehearted support for the proposals. The proprietors of this Fenland business have a proven track record of community support and diversification over time to establish a working business model and in doing so have maintained an existence providing, not only a service available to the local community and beyond but also to the encouragement of tourism to the Fenland area. “Statistics show that public house establishments operating within the hospitality industries are struggling to exist, especially affected by the processes around the COVID pandemic and difficulties in recovering from the devastation that caused.

“Public houses are currently closing their doors and businesses at a rate of about 80 establishments per month (in the first quarter of 2024).”

The officer’s report concluded: “The proposals offer an acceptable level of occupier amenity, providing four double bedrooms with en-suite facilities.

“The proposals accord with the necessary policies of the Fenland Local Plan as they represent no issues in terms of design, residential and neighbouring amenity, parking, highway safety or flood risk. As such, a favourable recommendation is forthcoming, subject to conditions.”