Update provided by Chris Merriman, Pubs Protection Officer

The Bounty, Hinckley: Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council have refused an application for the conversion of the upper floor to four flats. The refusal is based on grounds of substandard building standards. No grounds were sighted for loss of residential space for pub staff, however the application is likely to be approved with a corrected building design.

The Oddfellows, Higham-on-the-Hill: There has still been no decision from Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, on the latest planning application.

The Boot Inn, Ibstock: has been closed for over four years and an application has been submitted for seven flats in two storeys on the carpark. Additionally there was an earlier application to convert the main pub building into eight flats. The Planning Officers have sighted several historic references and design features to the building. Chris will raise an objection as loss of amenity, on behalf of the Branch.

The Hansom Cab, Burbage: Greene King have had plans approved to make cosmetic improvements to the exterior of the building. This is seen as good news that the brewery are willing to invest.

Hinckley & Bosworth Council have refused ACVs on the a number of pubs in H&B CAMRA area. Chris will refer the decisions to Paul Ainsworth, CAMRA National Planning Policy Advisor and seek a meeting with H&B CAMRA Branch members and H&B Council Planning.

Current Pub Protection policies adopted by Hinckley & Boswort Borough Council in their local plan, do not offer adequate protection to “urban” pubs as Assets of Community Value (ACV). Rural Pubs have received greater protection for their communities. Chris advises that we give feedback to the consultation of the Hinckley & Bosworth New Local Plan to provide stronger safeguards.

The use of accommodation in closed pubs, such as with the Dog & Hedgehog and the Bulls Head are examples that have been raised by Chris to the Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Planning Enforcement, and is awaiting feedback.