Proposals to convert former St Leonards pub into art and craft studio unveiled
Plans to turn a former pub in St Leonards into an art studio with accommodation have been submitted.
The application for The Duke pub, Duke Road, seeks permission to change the use of a public house with accommodation to a mixed-use property incorporating an art studio and craft studio.
A design and access statement from the present owners of the building, on behalf of the application, said: “The public house closed in 2022 and was sold for to a property developer.
“Planning was granted for three flats. The developer then sold the building because the cost of the development proved greater than the value of the three flats. According to the previous landlords and brewery, the property is no longer viable as a public house due to its ‘backstreet’ location and small size.
“Before purchasing the property we informally asked the residents from the four nearest properties if they would be happy for us to move in and change the use from public house to art/craft studios – they were all informally fine with that.
“The live/work nature of the proposed change of use will enable both residents to both live and work in the same building. The number of live/work spaces in the St Leonards area is very low. The Hastings Borough Council Introduction Policy prioritises spaces for affordable artist/artisan 'maker' spaces to foster a thriving local economy.
“The combination of one two-bedroom flat and two studio work spaces is an ideal use of the space without undue pressure on the local facilities, particularly parking and waste collection.
“The layout follows the existing building as the two spaces fit exactly into the two spaces used for the public house. The only additional element is to reinstate the original large doors of the public house in keeping with its 1895 origins.
“The proposed use will take full advantage of the existing garden and further increase the green space and biodiversity of the plot.”
Members of the public may view the full details of the application and submit comments via the council's planning portal at www.hastings.gov.uk/planning by searching under the reference number HS/FA/26/00551 or by visiting the council offices during normal opening hours.