Former pub to become shop despite residents' protest

A former village pub is to be converted into a shop, despite complaints from residents.

Hundreds of people signed a petition against plans to redevelop The Beehive in Fishburn, County Durham.

They claimed the village was “not big enough” to accommodate another convenience store, and raised concerns over road safety and traffic issues.

Durham County Council’s planning authority, which approved the plans, disputed claims the historic building had listed status and a covenant requiring it to be retained as a pub.

A total of 30 letters of objection, as well as a petition with about 250 signatures, were submitted to the council, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Residents described the village as a bottleneck, particularly during school times, and said there had been many near-misses on nearby roads.

Fishburn Parish Council, which also opposed the plans, said: "Cars speeding through the village have caused several accidents and near-misses at the nearby crossroads and zebra crossing.

“Converting the building, which is of historical significance, would significantly alter the façade of the building. Safety improvements are required so that vehicles could safely use the retail premises.”

Applicant Kavitha Thirumalai said the redevelopment would help to bring a disused building back into beneficial use.

A statement said the store would provide significant investment in the village and the shop would be staffed by local people.

“It will ensure the longevity and conservation of a local heritage asset,” the statement added.

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