Pub safe from bulldozer says firm behind £600m scheme

Hundreds of regulars at the Templar pub have signed a petition calling for it to be saved.

Developer Hammerson is planning to build a major shopping and leisure development either side of Eastgate. The company has submitted a planning application for an amendment to its proposals that would allow more leisure uses, including a casino.

It has sparked fears among customers that the Templar, which is not listed, could be knocked down.

Barrie Pepper, of the Campaign For Real Ale, said: “It is a popular community pub. Our view is that there is a lot more for the community in a pub like this than there would be in a wine bar and another casino. There is a petition going around and at the end of last week the one in the pub has been signed by over 400 people.”

Chris Jones, planning consultant for the scheme, said: “All the amendment does is propose a change to the floorspaces and we are asking for a slight variation.

“The proposal is still for the Templar to remain in its current position. The council has had concerns raised by local politicians but they are unfounded.”