Petition launched to stop sale of pub

REGULARS at a Plymouth pub have started a petition in a bid to save the venue after it was earmarked for closure.

- KATIE OBORN

The Grenville pub, which is a “vital community space”, is subject to a planning application to be turned into flats.

The pub’s owner has applied to Plymouth City Council (PCC) for the change of use of the ground floor from public house to three flats.

But residents are desperate to save the venue as it is “heart of the community”. They have started a petition to try and save it from development and has so far had 335 signatures.

The planning application, which is now out for public consultation, has been published on the Plymouth City Council website. Residents have until May 7 to submit a comment.

Pub manager Tony Upton-Webb, said he fears the community will “lose its meeting place” if The Grenville closes. The 61-year-old said: “This community pub has been a beloved establishment for many generations, serving as a hub for families, friends, and neighbours to come together, celebrate traditions, and create lasting memories. We have young and old here that come in to socialise, they don’t get to go anywhere else, so it would be such a loss to the community.”

Many people who’ve visited The Grenville over the years say a covenant on the public house, dating back to Lady Astor’s time, stipulates the premises “should remain a pub” – and they hope the petition will help to save the premises from development.

The council has said it will consider all feedback on the planning application and have consulted CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) regarding the plans.