An appeal lodged by the owners of the former Mansfield Bar to overturn the refusal of their bid to convert the pub into a home, was successful this week.
Members of the council’s Local Review Body voted unanimously on Monday to give former landlords Brian and Sue Lee the go-ahead to change the building’s use into a residential flat, after the application was previously rejected by planning officers due to flood risk.
And Councillor Stuart Marshall, who has supported the couple throughout the process, says he thrilled by the committee’s decision.
“I am absolutely delighted that the appeal lodged by the owners of this former pub have been successful, and I’m very grateful to the Local Review Body who heard many good, and justified reasons, as to why this once well-known establishment should now be converted into a dwelling,” he said.
The couple, who called last orders in the pub last April, were refused planning permission in September on the grounds that it did not comply with policy, and that the development would be at “significant risk of flooding”.
But Hawick Councillor Clair Ramage, who is a member on the Local Review Body, says she fully supported the change.
“For me it made no sense to allow a building to be left boarded-up and the continuing negative effect this would have on the neighbouring properties,” she explained.
Mrs Ramage added: “Hawick will soon be starting its Flood Prevention Scheme which will help to mitigate flooding to all properties along the riverside, so this, for me, supported the applicant’s decision to change the use, and bring it back to life.”
Owner Sue Lee, who ran the pub with her husband for more than 12 years, says Monday’s ruling has brought a huge sense of relief to them both.
“We feel common sense has prevailed, and are so happy to have been successful in winning the appeal,” she said. “A huge weight has been lifted off our shoulders, and it means so much to us financially.”
Mr Marshall concluded: “It is always sad when such a well-established business like the Mansfield Bar has to finally close its doors, but townsfolk will be pleased to learn that some good news has come out of what could have been a bad situation for both Brian and Sue, and the town.”
iour which is blighting the town at weekends.
It has also been claimed that “young drunks are running riot” and that the Howegate “looked like a bomb had dropped on it on Sunday morning”.
The comments, which were posted on social media, also suggested that youngsters were “taking drugs openly” at weekends, and that antisocial behaviour had been “going on for years”.
Later on Sunday, photographs emerged on social media which indicated that the issue is not confined to the Howegate, with rubbish strewn across pavements and the road in the High Street area.
However, local community sergeant, Tom Quinn, said: “We categorically deny any claims that antisocial behaviour is not taken seriously by police. We know it can be a blight on our communities and affect people’s daily lives.
“High visibility patrols take place across the night-time economy and officers will respond to any incidents as they are reported. We work closely with partners, licensed premises and local communities to prevent and deter any antisocial behaviour.
“It is vital the community tell us their concerns, so we can act appropriately and ensure resources are giving increased attention to areas where issues are being reported.
“Any issues can be reported to Hawick Police Station in person or via 101, or emailed to the local Community Policing Team at HawickDenholmCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk. In partnership with Scottish Borders Council, and the local Community Action Team, we can tackle these issues.
“To report areas where litter is a problem, contact Scottish Borders Council on 0300 100 1800.”
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