In May, the Campaign for Real Ale found that London was losing pubs at a rate of four a week.
John Cryne, chairman of Camra’s north London branch, said Westminster’s idea deserved a “big cheer”, adding: “We want a planning system where local communities have a say in their built environment.”
But he said there was more to do, including the removal of permitted development rights. “Any arguments these developments and conversions are solving London’s housing shortage are complete baloney,” he said. “They can only be bought by millionaires.”
In December, Punch Taverns sparked a backlash after making nearly £3.7 million by selling the Old White Bear in Hampstead and The Star in St John’s Wood to property developers.
The George Tavern in Stepney is also under threat from plans to turn the adjacent building — the former Stepney’s nightclub — into flats. Jagger, Moss and singer Lianne La Havas are backing a campaign to save the pub.
Some campaigners have succeeded. The Cross Keys in Chelsea, boarded up two years ago, was bought by Parsons Green Land which intends to refurbish the pub. And the nearby Phene Arms has been sold to the City Pub Company after a campaign backed by Grant.
