Plan for a micropub challenged over crime fears

A proposal has been submitted to convert shops into a new micropub in Werrington, Peterborough

A proposal for a new micropub has been challenged over fears of anti-social behaviour and a lack of parking.

The plan for the pub on Canterbury Road, Werrington, Peterborough, has been referred to Peterborough City Council’s (PCC) planning committee.

Sandra Bond, a Liberal Democrat councillor for the Gunthorpe ward in Peterborough, objected to the proposal and said that several anti-social incidents in the area had been caused by people under the influence of alcohol in the evening.

The applicant Holli Posnett – whose partner Andy Simmons ran The Ploughman in Werrington before it closed down in January – has called Ms Bond’s objections “unreasonable”.

Ms Bond referred the application to the planning committee and said she was asked by “residents who reside at the surrounding area” to challenge the application.

“A micropub does not attract the type of visitors being referred to,” Ms Posnett said.

“Parking should not present an insurmountable problem, particularly as customers at other micropubs in Peterborough walk, cycle or take public transport,” she added.

Parking provisions

PCC’s planning officers have recommended approval of the application subject to conditions, such as the pub refraining from playing amplified or live music and prohibiting people from taking alcohol into the outdoor smoking area.

The council’s highways services also raised objections to the pub and said more information was needed on what parking provisions would be provided by the applicant.

The plans for the micropub received 47 letters of objection from the public and 44 letters of support.

Cambridgeshire Police has not objected to the proposal, and said that the road “appears to be of low vulnerability to crime”.

The pub, if approved, would be expected to host 30-40 people at a time.

The planning committee will determine the application on 19 March.