Plans to convert 'unviable' Fenland pub

Plans have gone in to convert a Fenland village pub into a family home with the owner claiming that after two years of trying he has been unable to sell the business.

A design and access statement submitted by Swann Edwards Architects explains the landlord of the Six Ringers Inn in Leverington has retired due to poor health.

The report explains he put the business up for sale in November 2016 with Hilton Smythe Business Sales "at a price that is directly comparable with other pubs in the local area and has been marketed for over 12 months".

The property, which has owners accommodation, as well as a sports bar was on the market at £210,000. It has planning permission for a five letting room extension which Hilton Smythe said would "hugely benefit the pub and could be a great asset".

Despite this Swann Edwards' report said there has been no interest in taking it in its existing use as a pub. The report said the pub has been on the market for twice the recommended length of time set out in Fenland District Council's planning policy.

The report adds: "The owner has confirmed that he was only abel to make a living from the pub as he owns it outright, demonstrating that it is not a viable enterprise for those who may need to borrow money for the purchase.

"This is perhaps a contributing factor to the lack of interest from prospective purchasers. The public house is not a designated Asset of Community Value. The change of use will allow for the building to continue to be occupied and will avoid a landmark building being left empty within a central location within Leverington."

It also points out that there are two other pubs in the village and adds: "The loss of the building to a residential use therefore will not leave the village bereft of drinking establishments. The reality is that the pub will close imminently and in any event and therefore the facility is already lost."

The pub is currently being temporarily run by the owner's daughter since he was forced to retire for health reasons last summer.

Swann Edwards conclude: "Having demonstrated that there is no interest from other parties in taking the pub forward for a considerable amount of time ... it is submitted that the change of use of the Six Ringers to a dwellinghouse is acceptable."

Read more: Two in every five Fenland pubs have called last orders and closed in the past 10 years