The future of The Drovers Arms in Puncheston, Pembrokeshire has taken a turn! Local planners have just rejected a proposal to convert this former village pub into four residential flats. Sandra Davis of O & D Enterprises Ltd aimed to legitimize work that started in early 2024 despite facing an enforcement notice from Pembrokeshire County Council.
The pub, which stopped operating in 2022, is a staple of the community, and the decision to convert it has sparked plenty of debate. Many locals voiced concerns about the negative impact this change could have on the community. The objections ranged from a potential increase in anti-social behaviour to the loss of a treasured community space.
There’s also a broader backdrop to this story. A report by the British Beer and Pub Association highlighted that 2,250 pubs have closed across the UK over the past five years. The struggles are especially tough in rural spots like Puncheston, where pubs rely heavily on seasonal summer trade.
Despite the setbacks, the application was refused due to concerns about wastewater management, inadequate drainage proposals, and the disappearance of the community facility without suitable replacements. Locals believe the sense of community tied to The Drovers Arms is irreplaceable.
It’s a reminder of how vital such establishments are to village life, and many hope for solutions that will keep the spirit of The Drovers Arms alive. Share your thoughts below – should more be done to save our rural pubs or is change inevitable? 🍻🏡