By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Redevelopment plans which put at risk a “much-loved” Cheltenham pub have been rejected.
Plans to convert the Bell Inn in Bath Road into flats and build a new house behind it have been turned down this week much to the delight of pub landlord Chris Evans.
Peter Glanville, who owns the building, wanted permission to go ahead with the works which include a two bed house with a garden, three one bed flats and a studio flat.
The ground floor would have been kept as commercial space. But a campaign was launched in December to save the pub from redevelopment.
And Cheltenham Borough Council planners have rejected the planning application.
They said the proposals for the grade II listed building would have resulted in “overdevelopment” and went against national and local planning policies.
Mr Evans said he was delighted by the outcome and thanked all those who supported the pub’s campaign. “I’m very delighted with the news,” he said.
“I’d like to thank all the people that lent their support to the petition.
“I don’t know whether the council took this into consideration. We were inundated with people coming in to support us.”
A separate decision on whether to list the pub as an asset of community value is due tomorrow (February 28).
This would protect the site from inappropriate development and would allow the community a chance to buy the pub.
A petition to save the pub was launched by local Conservatives which was backed by more than 570 people.’
Richard Newman asked council chiefs at the full council meeting on February 21 if they would be willing to support the campaign to save The Bell Inn.
He also asked for an update on the application to list the building as an asset of community value.
Speaking this week, Mr Newman said he was pleased with the council decision to refuse planning permission.
But he fears the “war isn’t over yet” and is hopeful the asset of community value application will be granted.
“I’m very happy but still a little apprehensive,” he said. “I know this isn’t over. It’s just a victorious battle in what seems to be a very long war.
“They could put new plans in or appeal the decision. For me, it hinges on whether the asset of community value application is approved.
Former Cheltenham MP Alex Chalk, who also supported the campaign, said it was “fantastic news.”
“It’s a win for the local community and I’m delighted,” he said.
The council received a nomination to declare The Bell an asset of community value in January.
And if this status were to be granted it would protect the pub from inappropriate development and changes of use.
It would also allow give the community a right to buy the pub if it is ever put up for sale. An assessment panel reviewed this application on January 22.
A decision by the community and economic development director is due tomorrow February 28.