Residents in shock as historic Waterlooville pub set to be demolished

Residents are urging Havant Borough Council to reconsider its decision to allow The Wellington, in Waterlooville, to be knocked down.

The building has been on London Road since 1867 and will be demolished to make way for shops and flats.

The plans have drawn objections from many locals on the planning document, who say the building is at the heart of the town’s heritage.

Mr Boniface of Coulter Gardens, said in his objection: ‘People have lost heart in Waterlooville with the town. Retail struggles there because of the empty shops, if you fill a place with flats and pound shops it will only go one way.

‘Can’t the council try to keep what history we have left?’

While Mr Mintram, of Cunningham Road, added: ‘I’m sick and tired of seeing old buildings in Waterlooville torn down for soulless flats.

‘The area needs to retain a little of its heritage and removing older buildings is ruining the village feel of our small town. Havant Borough Council, please rethink this terrible decision.’

Another resident suggested the building is converted into a venue for live music or comedy.

In its planning statement on behalf of land owner Mr M Forfar, Pure Town Planning said: ‘The pub will be redeveloped (subject to planning permission being granted) for a mixed commercial scheme with residential development.

‘It is not a designated asset of community value, and therefore the applicant wishes to exercise his right to demolish the building.’

The company expects work to demolish the pub to start next month and finish in July.

If plans to build homes on this site are submitted and approved, they will count towards the 11,250 new homes that need to be built across the borough by 2036.

Cllr Paul Buckley, who represents Waterloo, said: ‘The council has looked for any reason why prior approval to demolish the pub would be required, but can find no reason to go against government guidance. The building is historic and I’d like to see it retained, but I have to accept the advice given there’s no reason to go against government guidance.’