Closed Pub With 'No Realistic Future' Could Be Turned Into Six-Bedroom House

A closed Isle of Wight pub with ‘no realistic future’ in the ‘current economic climate’ could be turned into a six-bedroom house.

Jacqueline Hunt has lodged a proposal with County Hall to convert the former Kingston Arms pub at 176 Newport Road in Cowes into a family home.

The Kingston Arms ceased trading on November 22 last year, with the property’s tenant, who ran the business, vacating the premises on November 30, according to a Planning Statement.

The document submitted by the pub’s landlords says:

“Having successfully operated this public house for 26 years ourselves, then rented it out for a further six years to a declining trade, we are certain it has no future as a going concern.

“It has become clear that a ‘wet supply only’ business within a residential area, with very little passing ‘traffic or footfall’ has no realistic future in the current economic climate.

"The general shift in culture nationally against the old-fashioned drinking sessions means that pubs like the Kingston Arms have become obsolete.

“However, it would be perfect for our future plans of a single, multi-generational family unit, readily available to suit our needs for disabled access and safe accommodation.

“This would not require any alterations to the external building, thus maintaining its original features and footprint.”

The proposed house comprises two lounges, a dining room, cellar, kitchen and kitchenette, hall, office and a bathroom.

County Hall’s public consultation on proposal 25/00573/FUL ends on July 18 and a decision is expected on August 13.