Empty pub near Much Wenlock to be converted into home

A landowner has finally been given permission to convert a Shropshire pub into a home.

The Feathers Inn in Brockton, near Much Wenlock, has been closed for long periods several times since 2004.

The last attempt to revive it was in January 2022, when it was taken over by chef George Cavendish. But Mr Cavendish called time on the pub in August 2023.

In 2024 previous plans to convert the pub into a home were refused. Shropshire Council argued that not enough evidence had been provided to decide whether or not it could still be run as a viable community facility.

In March a fresh application was submitted on behalf of the owner, Richard Bowyer setting out a detailed case for changing the use of the 17th-century building from a public house to a single dwelling.

The premises underwent extensive renovation between 2016 and 2019 after being purchased in a derelict state. While the upper floors have been used as living accommodation, the latest proposal seeks to bring the ground floor into residential use as well.

A design and access statement submitted by Jan Bargiel said that, despite "significant investment and operational effort", the premises had been closed for more years than it has been open since 2004.

The agent added that despite the pub being marketed by specialist agents, there had been no interest from anyone wishing to run it as a hospitality business, demonstrating "a lack of realistic market demand rather than a failure of the marketing process".

The proposal attracted 17 public objections.

“It's all about money and profit, with no care for the people living in the hamlet of Brockton," said Caroline Gwilliams.

"Pubs are a much-needed social hub for our wellbeing and community."

Easthope Shipton and Stanton Long Parish Council also objected.

However, Shropshire Council has decided to grant planning permission subject to conditions being carried out.

"The building had been derelict and empty for a number of years prior to 2016," said planning and development services manager Tabitha Lythe.

"Following an extensive three-year programme of refurbishment between 2016 and 2019, the premises traded for five months before closing due to Covid. The premises then reopened in 2022 and traded for 21 months, however closed again in September 2023 due to the viability of the business.

"In this regard, the LPA (Local Planning Authority) is satisfied that sufficient evidence has been submitted to demonstrate that the use of the building as a public house is no longer viable, as demonstrated by prolonged closure, repeated business failures, and extensive unsuccessful marketing.

"Therefore, on balance the proposal is considered acceptable."