But last week, in what is thought to be a legal first, a planning inspector recognised the pub’s status as an “asset of community value” under the Localism Act and dismissed an appeal by Mr Patel to use the first floor as a flat.
James Watson, secretary of Save the Chesham Arms campaign, said: “We had a drink outside the pub that night to celebrate and give ourselves a pat on the back.”
Guy Nicholson, Hackney council cabinet member for regeneration, said: “We will continue to support the local community who have campaigned tirelessly against the illegal development of this site.”
