An appeal has been launched that could allow an empty pub to be demolished to make way for a new shop, despite the plans being rejected by Sandwell Council. The council turned down Sham Singh's application to knock down the former Crown Inn in Station Road, Old Hill, last year, stating that it intended to use the land for future housing or employment. Mr Singh has now appealed the decision to the government's planning inspectors, who have the power to overrule the council and award costs if deemed necessary.
Details of the proposed development
The pub would be replaced with a single-storey shop measuring 338 square metres, accompanied by a 10-space car park. The site is located on land that Sandwell Council has earmarked as a potential location for more than 190 homes. However, due to multiple ownerships and some landowners unwilling to sell or keen to redevelop, no solid plans are expected for at least 15 years.
Council's reasons for rejection
A report by the council's planners from last year rejecting the application stated: "The development would undermine allocations for housing and employment land within the borough, resulting in the loss of much-needed available land for such uses, whereas there is no recognised need for additional retail provision in the area which is met by existing retail provision and proximity of the site to a retail centre." The land is expected to be included for employment use in the council's updated development plans.
Applicant's arguments
A statement included with the 2025 application argued: "The proposed development provides new small-scale retail and commercial floorspace of direct benefit to the locality and on a site wholly appropriate for such a purpose which will both support the day-to-day needs of the proposed development [and] local community. The proposals will maximise the use of the brownfield site by bringing a longstanding vacant and derelict site into beneficial retail use.
"The existing building currently contributes poorly to its urban environment, is becoming an increasing eye sore in the local community and has been a location for vandalism. In its current condition the site has a negative impact on the townscape and appearance of the local area. The proposal will allow for nearby residents to access a retail facility by foot, which is not currently possible, as such reducing the local dependency on private car use."
Next steps
The planning inspectors will now review the appeal and decide whether to uphold or overturn the council's decision. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases in the Black Country area.
