The Royal Standard – retrospective planning application
A retrospective Planning Application (25/030409/FUL) has been submitted for the Royal Standard (156 St.Marys Gate, S2 4AX). It is evident from both the application and outside observation, that the proposed changes have already occurred: the premises are functioning as a fast-food restaurant.
In planning terms, the key questions are:
(i) can the loss of a pub be justified in terms of local and national planning policies?
(ii) can the loss of a valuable community facility be justified?
This is a decision for the planning authorities. We are sure they will check that the applicants have carried out a full feasibility study as to the continuing use of the building as a public house before they commenced alterations.
We also note two heritage aspects of the building:
(i) the stone representations of the ‘Royal Standard’ flag above the two ground floor windows. As far as we are aware, this distinctive stonework is unique.
(ii) the ceramic tiling above the main entrance which says ‘Royal Standard.’ After many years of obscurity, this signage was revealed in early 2015 when the obscuring placard was storm-damaged.
It is not possible to accurately date these artefacts, except to say that they have been in place for many years, possibility for over a century. We hope that these heritage aspects will remain after this planning process is complete. We hope that the relevant SCC planning reports for this planning application will make appropriate references.
We look forward to the result of this planning application with interest: a retrospective application which has involved the loss of a public house.
