Baring Hall Hotel pub in Grove Park saved from demolition (From News Shopper)

Baring Hall Hotel pub in Grove Park saved from demolition

2:48pm Monday 8th October 2012 in News By Mark Chandler

CAMPAIGNERS for the Baring Hall Hotel in Grove Park have seen off plans to demolish it.

It took last minute legal action by residents and a local listing from Lewisham's mayor to stop the 130-year-old building being demolished last year and turned into shops and flats.

Last week, an appeal by the developer was defeated and campaigners now hope to reopen it as a community pub.

The inspectorate's report concluded: "The existing building has architectural interest, substantial historical interest and a different purpose and function in the street scene which adds very significant quality to the area which is strongly valued by the local community."

Councillor Liam Curran said: "Now the real hard work begins in raising the funds and getting the developers to sell it on."

Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Regeneration Councillor Alan Smith said: "We are obviously delighted with the Planning Inspectorate's decision and now hope that we will be able to find a more fitting plan to refurbish this much-loved local landmark."