A listed former pub can be converted into a family home, a St Albans planning committee has agreed.
St Albans central planning committee gave permission at its meeting on Monday for The Blue Anchor in Fishpool Street to be changed from a pub to a four-bedroom house.
The Grade II listed building, which is in the St Albans conservation area, will have some additional external work including the remodelling and alterations to single storey rear extensions, the addition of a detached car port and a low level front brick wall with railings and access gates.
The Blue Anchor is believed to have been built in the 17th century and closed its doors as a pub in spring 2014. Owners McMullen & Sons said it had tried to find a suitable tenant but without success.
The application from Osprey Developments had been called into committee by two councillors. Cllr Jessica Chivers said it had been empty for over 12 months and with the high wooden fences across the former car park and the security signage, it detracted from the appearance of the area. She maintained residents living close by were broadly supportive of the application and of the three representations made to the committee, two were in favour.
Cllr Edgar Hill wanted to ensure that the architectural style, street setting and other details would be appropriate to the street setting in a sensitive historical area. Planning officers were satisfied that as there were no changes planned to the frontage apart from the removal of signage, it would be compatible with other buildings in the vicinity.
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