The Goldsmiths Arms – known as ‘the Goldies’ – in East Acton, London, was more than a pub, according to the local residents’ association.
The pub was sold by Greene King to a property developer in October 2017.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Jacqueline Davis said the pub had nurtured a community spirit in the area.
She said: “Its closure came as a shock to the community. Many residents have fond memories of playing in the large beer garden as children and then taking their own children and grandchildren there for a treat. The large function room hosted baptisms, birthday parties, weddings and wakes.
“As young people grew up and left Acton, they would always return to meet up with old friends in the ‘Goldies’ as it was affectionately known.”
Missing the fun
Davis added: “It was the place to go and celebrate when friends and family got together.
“Now older people who would often have lunch and read the paper in the pub are missing their old friends and find they are spending more and more time alone in their homes. Children are missing the fun they had playing in the garden.
“Residents miss their pub but, more than this, they miss each other.”
A petition titled ‘Keep the Goldsmiths Arms a pub’ has gained more than 2,000 signatures and asks Ealing Council to back residents’ campaign.
There has been a pub on the site of the Goldsmiths Arms since 1819.
Ealing Council said it was in the early stages of processing a planning application submitted by Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing for a residential development.
Public consultation
Plans include the demolition of the pub in replacement of 65 homes, a community centre, nursery and gym.
The council said there would be a flexible floor space that would have the capability of being used as a pub.
The application will be subject to a public consultation this month.
It has been listed as an asset of community value, which means a community group could make a purchase bid during any disposal process by the owners.
Last year, the Forest of Dean District Council voted to buy a derelict pub to help improve the well-being of a village community.