Battle looms over snookerclub flats bid

London and Cambridge Properties submitted a proposal to Fareham Borough Council for a change of use for the first floor of Stubbington Snooker Club but it was rejected in June of this year.

Owner of the club Kevin White said: ‘We are not shocked about the appeal as it was expected. Of course snooker clubs are dropping off the planet and it would be a massive blow to the community if ours joined that list.’

Club members previously protested about the decision which would see the club transformed into six two-bedroom and four one-bedroom flats.

Kevin added: ‘All the residents and councillors are with us.’

Councillor Carolyn Heneghan said: ‘My thoughts on this matter have not altered from the first application to develop the premises presently occupied by the snooker club.

‘The lack of parking for new residents and their visitors would be a major problem.’

Cllr Heneghan added: ‘I am totally in support of all the local people who have vetoed this application.’

Councillor Chris Wood is also in support. He said: ‘I believe the reasons for refusal made by the planning committee were sound and expect that they will be upheld.’

Kevin has owned the club with business partner Lisa Hodgson for nearly a year.

He said: ‘We are not just a snooker club – we have weddings, parties and dance classes and the centre is a massive help for this community.

‘We are trying to gain more local support and we will not go down without a fight.’