Challenging the decision to prevent pub conversion into a residence

An appeal has been submitted challenging Durham County Councils decision to deny permission for the Bridge Inn at Whorlton Bridge, near Barnard Castle, to be converted into a private home. The buildings owner, Ivan Carter-Becker, has approached the governments Planning Inspectorate after failing to secure new tenants following the pubs closure in 2023.

In July, the council received numerous objections regarding the conversion plan. Members of the Whorlton Community Benefit Society, who had raised 200,000 with the aim of acquiring the pub, emphasized its importance to village life. They continue efforts to raise additional funds to classify the property as an asset of community value.

Durham County Council stated the application was refused because Mr. Carter-Becker did not provide sufficient evidence that the pub was no longer commercially viable.

Impact of Bridge Closure

Local residents noted that the 2019 closure of the villages suspension bridge reduced visitor numbers to the area, affecting the Grade II listed pub. Work to rebuild the bridge, which began in 2024, has caused lengthy detours, further impacting business.

In his appeal, Mr. Carter-Becker highlighted the economic challenges faced since the bridge closure and argued that the councils reasoning for refusal was flawed. He stated that the authoritys assessment contained inaccurate assumptions about the pubs operations and trading history, as well as the effects of the bridge closure on the propertys viability.

He also stressed that converting the pub into a residence would preserve the historic building, benefiting the surrounding conservation area.

The Bridge Inn, dating back to the early 1800s, is currently on the market for 350,000. The Planning Inspectorate will review the appeal, with a final decision expected in 2026.

Author: Grace Ellison