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Pub Preservation
by Mark Hoile,
North London CAMRA
Pub Preservation Officer
This month we have a rapidly developing story concerning the Torriano
pub in Torriano Avenue, Kentish Town NW5. It has come to the attention of
North London CAMRA as the pub is under threat of closure for conversion to
residential flats.
Previously known as the Rose and Crown the licensee of six years was
disturbed to discover that the pub had been sold by Enterprise Inns
initially to Admiral Taverns and then further sold on along with a few
other pubs, to a company called 'Design Spaces' based in North London.
Within a short time an architect called at the premises to prepare plans
for what is understood to be ten flats.
The news has shocked the local community as the Torriano is the only
public house in the immediate area and has served the local community
for many years. A single island bar is surrounded by the very basic
but functional interior, typical of the area, which includes in most
parts the original slate floor, along with a real coal fire.
To the rear is a lower level 'urban garden', and at the front outside
seating. The pub provides an important focus and meeting point for both
residents and community groups. The proposal appears to be at an early
stage of development, however the information currently available
suggests that the closure may be imminent.
A well organised local campaign has already started, and is being
supported by the local press, CAMRA, and the friends of the nearby
Pineapple which was successfully saved from redevelopment a few years
ago. The pub is launching a website which will be kept up to date with
news of developments. This is an excellent example of why the forthcoming
Sustainable Communities bill is a much needed piece of new legislation.
Those readers that are able to support the pub during this difficult time
may contact the pub directly as campaign support is critical at this early
stage.
Mark Hoile
Reproduced from the Full Pint, Issue 41.
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