The “structural decline of the pub sector” means a derelict tavern should be converted into a HMO – a new planning application claims.

A new planning application to convert the New Virginia Tavern on Rushton Road in Thornbury into housing has been submitted to Bradford Council this week.

The application, by ADA Rentals Ltd, is for the change of use of the ground floor of the pub building into an eight bed HMO.

The upper floors are already classed as residential.

It goes on to say it is no longer viable for a pub to operate in the area, a residential street off Leeds Road, and that there has been very little interest in anyone taking over the pub since it shut.

The pub, which more recently was known as The New Ginny Tavern, has been closed for some time, and is currently in a sorry state.

Last month emergency services were called to a fire in the car park behind the building.

The plans show that there would be eight bedrooms with two bathrooms shared between them.

It says all the rooms meet size standards for HMOs.

The planning application goes on to say: “The proposal seeks to deliver high-quality shared accommodation while bringing a vacant and redundant building back into beneficial use.

“The surrounding area is characterised by predominantly terraced residential properties, local neighbourhood amenities and good access to public transport routes.

“The continued use of the premises as a pub is no longer viable for the following reasons:

Structural decline in the pub sector. Changing consumer habits and rising operating costs have led to a sustained reduction in traditional pub viability.
Unsuitable location for modern pub operation. The site is located within a quiet residential area with limited passing trade, no strong evening economy and reduced commercial footfall
Building constraints. The layout and condition of the building require significant investment to meet modern hospitality standards.
Lack of market interest. The property has remained vacant, demonstrating no realistic demand for continued pub use. As such, the loss of the public house use is fully justified and policy compliant.

“The scheme delivers eight units of affordable shared housing, the reuse of a vacant building, reduced risk of anti-social behaviour and a sustainable form of development.

“The development represents a sustainable and appropriate use of the site, delivering clear social and economic benefits.”

A decision on the planning application is expected in the Summer.