THE owner of the former Grey Horse pub at Glazebury, Warrington, has shelved plans to convert the upper floor of the premises into a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) says local Cllr. Neil Johnson.
The village pub was daubed with graffiti on at least two occasions earlier this year when news of the proposed HMO came out, while work was being carried out on the premises.
AS well as shelving plans to convert the upstairs into an HMO, it is also proposed to reopen the ground floor of the premises as a pub/drinking establishment.
Cllr Johnson said: “I am pleased to share an important update with all residents regarding The Grey Horse pub in Glazebury.
“Following my consultation with Council officers, I have now received the following response.
“Officers have been in conversation with the owner of the property regarding the situation on site and their future plans.
“The owners have advised that they have reconsidered their investment in the property and have decided to no longer to proceed with plans to convert the first floor into a HMO. They intend to keep the ground floor as a pub/drinking establishment and no further works are planned at the first floor level.
“As only internal alterations have been carried out to the premises, which would not require planning permission, and there is no unauthorised change of use of the first floor of the premises, there is thankfully no breach of planning control at this particular time. Therefore, no further action is currently required from planning enforcement officers.
“The owner of the property has been advised that if the situation changes, or they decide to recommence works, then planning permission WOULD be required for the change of use to a HMO. They must get back in touch with planning officers before undertaking any further works on site.
Cllr.Johsnon added: “I am very pleased by this outcome and I do sincerely believe that the powerful voice of our community has forced the owner to rethink.
“I will keep in touch with planning officers and keep a very close eye on developments at The Grey Horse.”
