Campaign group stops pub becoming McDonalds
Planning inspectorate Lloyd Rogers dismissed an appeal from the global brand, who wanted to turn the Bitten in pub into a restaurant and drive thru after it was put on the market by Punch Taverns.
Licensee Glen McInnes told the Publican’s Morning Advertiser: “We’ve been fighting this for two-and-a-half years so I’m delighted with the result. The main reason we won was the massive support from the public and the local community. The show of strength from them was a major factor and the pub couldn’t have survived without it.”
Rogers said that he had been impressed by the level of support from the community.
“I was left in no doubt by the enthusiastic and sustained support of those attending the inquiry that the pub is highly valued by its clientele. I also heard how it is valued by others in the community who, although not regular users, recognise the contribution of the pub to the social well-being of the area.”
On Twitter, one local said: “So happy that the Bittern pub is staying put. No luck this time McDonalds.”
The pub was spared redevelopment thanks to its close connection with the community , with Rogers ruling it provided a safe place for local families and supported the surrounding area by hosting charity events, parties and wakes.
According to local newspaper the Daily Echo, the inquiry into the pub’s future attracted so many supporters that people crowded outside to hear the proceedings.
A spokesperson from Punch Taverns said: "Punch Taverns is currently reviewing all options available regarding the sale of the Bittern Pub in Southampton and, as such, there is nothing to report at this time.”
The PMA had not received a comment from McDonalds at the time of going to press.
