A country pub that was forced to shut down by HS2 has been sold - and could now be turned into a respite centre, despite concerns from residents.
Although campaigners tried tirelessly to save Annie Bailey's, in Hyde Heath, it had to close its doors in 2012 because a HS2 tunnel was due to be built there, but the train line was rerouted - meaning the building was saved from demolition.
The pub - which has been boarded up ever since - was put up for sale for £595,000 and has allegedly been sold to a "local businessman" who wants to redevelop the site.
A planning application - which is currently being considered by Chiltern District Council - says the pub has been purchased to turn it into a respite centre.
If the plans are given the go-ahead, as well as up to 12 respite beds, there could be a day care service for individuals with complex needs run by Chiltern Support & Housing Ltd.
The company, which is based in High Wycombe, supports 45 people across Bucks, Barnet, Enfield, Bexley, Harrow and Wandsworth.
Some residents have objected to the plans for a respite centre, lamenting the loss of a pub in the area.
Lynda Jackson wrote: “Given the loss of local pubs and restaurants in the area we would like to see this re-established as a pub/restaurant.
“The previous business was very successful and there is every reason to believe a new business would be equally successful here.
“With the loss of the pub at Ballinger and also South Heath both these villages would really make use of this as a pub/restaurant business.”
South Heath resident, Rohit Mannan, said South Heath is “in danger of becoming a fractured and disparate community”, adding: “The South Heath community is in dire need of a social hub such as a pub or restaurant and Annie Bailey’s pub fulfilled the vital function of bringing the community together.”
In a planning statement on the website, the developers said their respite centre would fit in with the community.
It said: “We will be providing an essential community service to the county as a whole but also to the local population of Chiltern District Council and hence the use of this facility will beneficial to the whole community.”
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