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Ortons: Complaints halt reopening of pub
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The pub, in Eldern, Orton Malborne, was shut three years ago following a spate of problems with fighting and noise.
But when Dive Inns Ltd submitted a licensing application, which also sought approval to play music, to Peterborough City Council to reopen the pub, ward councillors, police and residents were united in their opposition to the proposal.
And just a few days later. the council's licensing regulatory officer Darren Dolby confirmed the company had withdrawn its application, stating: "The applicants are mindful of the police and local authority concerns over the application."
The news was welcomed by ward councillor Janet Goodwin who said objectors had vowed to work together to come up with a solution to the problem of the empty site.
She said: "We were delighted to hear that the licence has been withdrawn as no-one wanted a pub there with its history.
"However, we have got an empty building there, which could be of great benefit to the community, and we are asking for residents to tell us what they would like to see there, maybe a youth club, and we can see if that would be possible."
Neighbourhood policing team sergeant Simon Goldsmith said officers had put in a "strongly worded" objection to the plans following concerns raised by residents and were pleased these had been heeded.
"Now the licence has been withdrawn the key thing will be to get in there and have a look at what it could be used for," he said.
And headteacher at Leighton Primary School Philip Stewart said now was the time to take crucial action.
Mr Stewart said: "I will be happy to work with the council, police and ward councillors to see what we can do with the site and hopefully put it to better use.
"Already people have suggested dance classes and keep fit along with youth clubs so there is obviously a real community need for such a space.
However, plans to convert the pub may not be straightforward.
Although the land is owned by Peterborough City Council, it is tied into a lease with a brewery until 2037.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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