Sheffield Asset of Community Value update
University Arms ACV rejection – no meeting with SCC
In late September, Sheffield City Council (SCC) refused our application to register the University Arms (UA) as an Asset of Community Value (ACV). The decision then was ‘called-in.’
Our Chair and myself attended the Scrutiny Committee 20th.October, during SCBF42. The ACV rejection decision remained unchanged. However, we posed a series of six questions. In the meeting Ccl.Jack Scott, the SCC Cabinet Member for Community Services and Libraries, agreed to respond to our questions, in writing, within a week and also agreed to meet with ourselves. Such a meeting was originally promised in an email to ourselves dated 3rd.October.
A written response from SCC finally arrived on 9th.November. However, despite reminders, at the time of writing, almost five weeks after the initial promise, no meeting has been arranged. SCC have not suggested a date/time or venue. They seem reluctant to meet with ourselves.
There are currently two other ACV applications for pubs with SCC: both lodged by local community groups:
White Lion, London Road – a decision was due on 3rd.November.
Cherry Tree, Carterknowle Road – decision due 2nd.December
The planning application to alter the ACV-listed Plough (Crosspool) into a Sainsburys received 157 responses from the public (151 against the plan). SCC have yet to make a formal decision, although this was due in late October
In short, SCC are not keeping to legal deadlines, seem to be interpreting the rules in their own manner and do not seem to wish to meet with interested parties.
– Dave Pickersgill – Pub Heritage Officer, Sheffield and District CAMRA