Plans to convert the former Royal George pub in Stagsden into housing have been resubmitted.
The application seeks permission to convert the former pub into a dwelling and build a second house on part of the former car park, following the dismissal of an appeal for similar plans in January last year.
Planning documents submitted with the application state that the revised scheme seeks to address the issues identified by the inspector by proposing the relocation of the bus stop and a planning obligation to fund the necessary works.
The proposal has attracted objections from residents who continue to argue that the loss of the pub has not been properly justified.
One objector said insufficient evidence had been provided to demonstrate the public house was genuinely unviable and questioned whether reasonable efforts had been made to continue operating it or sell it as a going concern.
The objection stated that local reports suggested offers may have been made for the property and that excluding the car park from the sale had reduced its attractiveness to potential purchasers.
They said: “I therefore respectfully request that Bedford Borough Council refuse the application unless and until it is satisfied that the public house has been genuinely marketed and operated in accordance with relevant planning policies governing the loss of community facilities.”
Another objection described the Royal George as an important community asset which had formed part of village life for around 200 years.
No substitute
The submission argued that although the village hall hosts events, it is not a substitute for the informal social role performed by a public house.
They wrote: “A public house serves a different and equally important function by providing an informal, accessible space where people can meet spontaneously, whether for a casual conversation, a meal, or a social gathering.
But another comment said: “Opponents often argue the loss of a community hub, but you can highlight that Stagsden already possesses an active, high-quality community space nearby at the Stagsden Village Hall.”
While another said: “This pub is not a pub and is already ‘lost’, it will never ever be a pub, in over a decade it’s not been a pub, we can’t hang on to nostalgia.
“Get it knocked down and get something beautiful built. If it’s not residential, we like a local happy shopper to drive through McDonald’s or a Primark.”
More information can be found on the Bedford Borough Council planning portal, reference 26/01038/FUL.
The overall consolation expiry date is Friday, July 3, 2026.
By John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
