A NEW pub-restaurant could be headed to the northern part of Bracknell Forest.
That’s one of a number of new and exciting planning applications validated by the council in the past week.
For full details of each proposal, enter the planning reference at planapp.bracknell-forest.gov.uk
New pub-restaurant in Winkfield (planning reference: 21/00157/FUL)
A new pub-restaurant could be set to replace The Squirrels, a derelict and disused pub in Winkfield.
Having been left empty since 2017, the run-down boozer has been making residents’ lives a nightmare due to the anti-social behaviour and vermin problems that have come with its closure.
But now the North Street site could be set for a makeover, with developers hoping to turn the pub into a pub-restaurant and new homes.
The Squirrels is set to be redeveloped
Joining the eatery would two five-bed detached homes, one three-bed home and five more flats on the floor above the pub-restaurant.
READ MORE: Derelict pub The Squirrels making residents' lives a misery
In a planning statement, architects Abracad wrote: “We don’t know whether or not a pub/restaurant can survive in this location.
“We are giving it every encouragement as the existing property is listed as an asset of community value and we all hope it can survive.
The Squirrels is set to be redeveloped
“If it fails, however, then the building design allows for possible alternative chance of use into perhaps offices or three more flats.”
Councillor Moira Gaw, who represents Winkfield and Cranbourne, has been working with residents over the past few years to try and restore the site.
Reacting to the application, she said: “The Squirrels application is to be welcomed and has terrific local support.
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“The old buildings have been an eyesore since the pub closed its doors.
“Residents are very excited about the new proposal and the provision of a pub is fantastic news.
“Community facilities are few and far between in the area and it's a great opportunity to update and improve the area.”
Change of use of building at farm (21/00174/PAF)
Planners Farm in Warfield could see an agricultural building redeveloped.
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Under plans submitted to the council, the building would be converted to space for ‘commercial use’.
Applicants are hoping to secure planning permission using permitted development rights.
Ten new parking spaces in Bracknell (21/00145/3)
Grassy areas in Bracknell have been targeted for conversion into new parking spaces.
Bracknell Forest Council and Silva Homes are working together to deliver the new bays.
According to plans, the new spaces would be added in Ullswater.
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Underground swimming pool at protected building (21/00085/FUL)
The Priory, on Church Hill in Binfield, is an 18th century listed building.
Homeowners at the site want to build an underground swimming pool following an extension to the dwelling.
The Squirrels is set to be redeveloped
To do this, they need extra permission from the council given the site’s historic background.
Like with all applications listed above, this one is pending consideration from Bracknell Forest Council.
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