AN ANNOUNCEMENT that plans to turn a Haworth pub into a convenience store have been scrapped has provoked a positive response.
Supermarket giant Tesco confirmed last week it was abandoning its scheme to convert the Royal Oak in Mill Hey into a Tesco Express.
Two applications submitted by Tesco – one to install a cash machine in the property and another to make further alterations to the building – were both rejected by Bradford Council.
Reacting to Tesco’s withdrawal, a Keighley and Craven branch spokesman of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) said: “Our local branch of CAMRA celebrated on being told the news the Royal Oak was saved from being turned into a supermarket.
“This is one threat lifted, and we hope it remains a pub. We urge the locals to support the Royal Oak as we’d like to see it remain a pub in the heart of the community.”
Keighley MP Kris Hopkins said: “It is clear the planning committee’s decision is in line with local wishes, and that can only be a good thing.
“Wearing my Community Pubs Minister’s hat, I am very pleased the Royal Oak has been saved for residents and tourists alike. I hope it will now be well supported so it can continue to play a very important social and economic role in the vibrant, Haworth community.”
Tesco’s application to put a cash machine in one of the building’s front windows was turned down on the grounds the facility’s users could obstruct the pavement, forcing pedestrians to step in the road.
A separate proposal for further alterations to the building was rejected after council planners said a bat survey would need to be undertaken first.
The Royal Oak’s owner, Enterprise Inns, was unavailable for comment at the time of going to print.
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