Developers have initiated preliminary discussions about the potential conversion of the Famous Firkin pub, a well-known establishment in Plymouth, into residential housing. This week, plans were submitted to Plymouth City Council concerning the site located at 2 Adelaide Place, which could see the historic pub transformed into two separate two-storey homes.
As the developers seek pre-application advice from the council, they have not yet submitted an official planning application. The pre-application document submitted includes queries regarding the acceptability of the proposed scheme in planning terms. The developers propose to subdivide the existing public house into two distinct dwellings while preserving the property's historical significance, retaining noteworthy features wherever feasible. Notably, the proposal does not include plans for off-street parking.
The developers have expressed a desire for confirmation on whether converting the Famous Firkin to a residential use would be viewed favourably under current planning regulations. They anticipate maintaining the existing façade, yet seek clarity on permissible modifications.
The Famous Firkin, a Grade II listed building, has encountered challenges since plans were revealed in 2024 to transform it into a community hub. After Millfields Trust, a social enterprise, purchased the pub for £165,000 in January 2023, the project faced unanticipated complexities, leading to significantly escalated renovation costs. The establishment had ceased operations around the time of the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020 and had been in a state of decay for years prior.
The Millfields Trust secured a loan from Plymouth City Council to facilitate the purchase, aimed at reviving the historic venue. However, as mentioned, the renovation process proved more complicated than expected, prompting developers to explore alternative options for its future.
Alongside the discussions surrounding the Famous Firkin, a variety of other planning applications have been submitted this week, covering a wide range of developments. Among them are proposals for single-storey extensions, multi-bed houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), and changes of use for various properties across Plymouth. Notably, the planning list includes applications related to refurbishments, new builds, and modifications to existing structures, reflecting ongoing development in the area.
Source: Noah Wire Services