Close loopholes - save our pubs

GROTTON HOTEL TODAY - convenience store

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We have a duty to protect them — councillor
A CAMPAIGN to save Oldham’s pubs from decline has been launched by councillors.

Liberal-Democrat councillor John Dillon says well-run pubs are great community bases that should be protected, and has urged council bosses to ask the Government to close the loophole that allows pubs to be converted or demolished without planning permission.

He also wants the council to investigate using powers to prevent pubs being converted to small supermarkets, betting shops or similar uses without the need for planning permission.

The Grotton Hotel was converted to a Co-op store despite opposition from residents. The Bridge Inn in Leesbrook became a DIY store.

“We have a duty to protect local pubs and this council is in a strong position to do that,” Councillor Dillon said.

“What do the Rovers Return and the Queen Vic have in common? They use the community value of a public base. We ask for the support of pubs like this, which serve the community — they provide employment, a hub and a controlled environment for beer consumption.”

In a motion to full council, Liberal Democrats also asked for adequate planning protection for pubs. They want the council to ensure that pubs with historical interest but no listed status are included on its local heritage list.

Labour councillor Steve Bashforth said the suggested motion “wouldn’t solve a single problem” because the problem is too few people going to pubs.

“Local breweries could help by keeping prices down,” he said. “You’ve got to look to the Government to stop beer tax escalation. Costs of Sky TV and lowering business rates — these are things what will save pubs.”

The council agreed that its overview and scrutiny committee will investigate the matter.