Plans to turn pub into school staff room withdrawn

An application to convert a 200-year-old pub into a staff room for teachers at King's Ely school has been withdrawn.

Planning documents submitted in March to redevelop The Fountain on Silver Street in Ely, Cambridgeshire, said the pub was "no longer viable in its current form" and had been operating "with substantially reduced hours".

Developers Bidwells said the landlord had confirmed their intention to sell the pub and "pursue the sale of the premises" to the school.

The proposals for the Grade II listed building were due to be considered by East Cambridgeshire District Council on 10 June but the application was withdrawn on Wednesday.

Bidwells said the current staff common room at King's Ely was "located away from the main teaching block" and "under-utilised as many staff do not have the time to walk there and back in school breaks".

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Joe Moor, who was campaigning to save the pub, called it a "very significant moment for The Fountain and for Ely".

The 41-year-old said: "Hundreds of people spoke up because The Fountain is not simply an old building but a nearly 200-year-old Grade II listed pub with real heritage and community value.

"We are hugely grateful to everyone who supported the campaign, and pleased that King's Ely has listened to the strength of feeling within the community.

"At the same time, important questions remain about what happens next, including whether any revised proposals may emerge in future."

King's Ely has been contacted for comment.

Do you have a story suggestion for Cambridgeshire? Contact us below.

Follow Cambridgeshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.