Pub to dwelling at 1 The Oxney Gourmet Pie And Burger Bar, Wittersham

“Planning permission is sought for the change of use of the existing building from a restaurant/bar to a single residential dwelling.”

“The proposal involves no physical alterations to the building. All existing rooms are to be retained, with no extensions, modifications, or demolitions. The proposed ground floor would comprise a lounge area with open-plan dining room, kitchen, reception, and family room.”

“The application site comprises the Oxney Gourmet Pie and Burger Bar, formerly known as The Swan Inn, located on the corner of Swan Street and Poplar Road in the village of Wittersham. Occupying a central position within the village, the site is surrounded by residential properties and lies within the High Weald National Landscape.”

“The existing building is a substantial two-storey structure, with a kitchen, bar and restaurant area on the ground floor, and three bedrooms on the first floor. A large car park is situated to the rear of the building, accessed from Poplar Road.”

“06/02053 Demolition of existing garage, store and construction of new single storey kitchen/ cold store/ prep area, male/female and disabled WC, dining area and entrance lobby together with decking and associated landscaping to car park and access via Wittersham Road. Construction of new pitched roof to replace flat roof on existing south elevation. Permitted 18/12/2006”

“07/00841 Provision of new external fire escape involving new balustrade / handrail to existing flat roof and fire escape staircase with enclosing fence / gate Permitted 04/07/2007”

“Having reviewed the evidence submitted in relation to the marketing and viability of the public and considering the breakdown of the financial losses, the evidence does suggest the property has been marketed over a sustained period, for the correct uses…”

“Adequate marketing and viability evidence has been provided. • Policy EMP10 requirements are met. • While the loss of the pub is regrettable, there is no clear prospect of continued commercial/pub use.”

“A significant number of representations object to the proposed change of use from public house (Sui Generis) to residential dwelling. The key grounds for objection are: • Loss of Community Facility: The Swan is the last remaining pub in Wittersham and is registered as an Asset of Community Value (ACV). Objectors argue that its loss would undermine community cohesion, particularly affecting non-drivers, older residents, and families.”

“Repeated Commercial Failure: Supporters note that multiple landlords have failed to make the pub viable over the past decade, despite refurbishment and investment. • Lack of Local Support: It is argued that the village did not sufficiently support the pub, with low patronage cited as a key reason for its closure. • Generous Offer to Community: The owner offered a five-year interest-free purchase plan to the community, but no serious interest was received.”

“Permit Subject to the following Conditions and Notes: (with delegated authority to the Head of Development Management and Enforcement to make or approve changes to the planning conditions (for the avoidance of doubt including additions, amendments and deletions) as she/he sees fit).”

“Standard Time 2. Approved Plans 3. Landscaping Scheme 4. Provision of Parking 5. Provision of ECVP ‘s 6. Bicycle Storage 7. Removal of Permitted Development Rights – Extensions 8. External Lighting…”