Loss of York pub ‘would not harm community’ says report, as it is set to be turned into flats

Plans to turn a York pub into 16 student flats are set to get the green light.

The Castle Howard Ox, which dates back to the 1840s, has been shut for about four years.

Alfa Homes, a Wetherby-based developer, wants to convert the pub in Townend Street in the Groves into student accommodation.

A report by City of York Council planning officers has now recommended the scheme for approval.

“The site had previously been acquired by Star Pubs & Bars in August 2017, the public house was closed on completion of the sale,” the report says.

It was closed due to the “high turnover of tenants; and struggles to compete with the neighbouring Punch Bowl public house”.

The report says: “Bearing in mind the close proximity of other public houses, offering a similar, but a wider range of services than the application site can or could provide, officers do not consider that the loss of the pub would result in undue harm to the local community.”

Residents’ objections

Under the plans, the main pub building would be redeveloped and a small extension added alongside, following demolition of an existing extension.

It would see the number of pubs in the Groves reduced from four a few years ago to one.

The plans have received a number of objections from residents, including:

• The area requires something that would bring the community together, the
  Groves had 4 pubs now reduced to 1
• Student accommodation not required
• The rooms are far too small, resulting in mental health issues
• Lack of parking, each flat should have a parking space otherwise will result in
  further parking within the Groves, there are existing parking issues in the area.
• No space for loading and unloading
• The accommodation should be able to accommodate people with disabilities

Officers are recommending the scheme be approved subject to a series of conditions. Councillors will discuss the report at a meeting on Thursday.