DELIGHTED residents were celebrating today after winning their battle to stop pub bosses from converting a former town hall into a pub and restaurant.

Planning inspector Anthony Davison backed Pendle Council's decision to refuse planning permission for Preston-based Inns & Leisure to transform Barnoldswick Town Hall, a Grade II listed building.

The inspector allowed a separate appeal by the company to put up pub signs but pointed out they "might not be required" as the pub itself was turned down.

The decision marks the end of an 18-month struggle between the pub company and residents, backed by councillors, over the future of the ex-council offices in the middle of the town's conservation area.

Now the former town hall in Jepp Hill, which is owned by the council, will be re-marketed for uses other than leisure.

The inspector heard evidence from both sides during an appeal last month against the council's refusal to grant planning permission. He agreed with the council's main arguments that the pub plan would have an adverse effect on the conservation area and there were problems with access and highway safety issues.

He was also concerned about the effect a pub would have on residents in nearby Church Street.

In allowing signs for a pub he refused planning permission for, Mr Davison said the two issues had to be dealt with separately and on their own merits. There were no planning grounds to refuse permission for the signs.

Jean Murray, of King Street, Barnoldswick, said: "It's absolutely fantastic news. We have enough pubs in the town; the building deserves something better. It shows that ordinary people, if they fight hard enough, can get things done." Barnoldswick councillor David Whipp said: "I'm delighted that the residents' campaign has been vindicated.

"Particulars of the site have been sent out to prospective buyers and the closing date for bids is February 17. We're hoping a suitable buyer can be found among them."

Barnoldswick town council member Mike Warner added: "I'm delighted for local residents who kept going despite the many meetings and delays that have had to be endured.

"It proves yet again, with a genuine case and perseverance a group of residents are able to influence a major decision.

"There is now nothing preventing Pendle Council from selling the building for a non-pub use and I hope we can see it back in use as soon as possible."

Inns & Leisure declined to comment on the decision.

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