West Berkshire Council approves new bar and restaurant plans at The Bell Inn at Boxford

West Berkshire Council has approved a redevelopment at the former Bell Inn at Boxford.

On Friday, the Local Planning Authority authorised plans submitted by Chris Bagot Architects to demolish and replace the existing building with a new bar and restaurant.

The loss of the non-designated heritage asset has been deemed acceptable on the condition construction begins within a reasonable time frame and is not left after demolition.

The National Planning Policy Framework stipulates that local planning authorities take 'all reasonable steps to ensure the new development will proceed after the loss has occurred'.

And in this instance, the receipt of a valid contract has been accepted as taking 'all reasonable steps'.