Some good news on the Pelican. On the 14th October the Planning Inspector reject an appeal by New Care(Altrincham) Ltd. against the non-determination by Trafford Council of their plans to demolish the Pelican and replace it with a Specialist Care Home. In his report the planning officer states:-
the loss of the Pelican Inn, a NDHA (non-designated herritage asset) of architectural merit with historic connections to the area, would result in unacceptable harm to the historic character of the area. Moreover, the size, appearance and detailing of the proposed replacement buildings would result in incongruous additions to the street scene, which would have unacceptable and detrimental effects on the character and appearance of the area.
and finds:-
"there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the public house is no longer capable of functioning as a community facility. Consequently, I find that the loss of the host building would reduce the ability for the local community to meet their typical social and cultural needs to its detriment"
the full report, which contains a great deal more information on the factors he used in reaching his decision can be downloaded from the Planning Inspectorate Appeals Casework Portal here:-
https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/ViewCase.aspx?caseid=3296154