"Currently no plans" to convert pub despite change of use application, says H&B

Statement issued as permission sought to turn The Haven into Subway and Spar

Brewery and pub chain operator Heron and Brearley says there are currently no plans to convert The Haven pub in Port Erin.

That's despite a change of use application being submitted by Mannin Retail to create a Subway and Spar shop on the site.

In a statement, H&B says: "The Haven remains an important part of our pub estate and we remain fully committed to operating it as a community pub.

Regarding the planning application, the chain says it's been submitted to 'provide flexibility for the future and to ensure a range of options are available for the property should they ever be required'. 

It adds: 'However, there are currently no plans to implement any changes arising from that application and the pub continues to trade as normal.

'Only recently, The Haven moved to our managed partnership model as part of the wider rollout of the initiative across our pub estate. We are fully supportive of Peter and his team and are encouraged by the positive progress being made at the site.

'Our focus remains on supporting the continued improvement of the business and maintaining The Haven as a valued community asset for local residents and visitors alike.'

While H&B Group says there are no plans to follow through with the change of use, the application by Mannin Retail says the current business is 'quiet and under-utilised, particularly during daytime hours and does not make effective use of the building or its associated external areas'.

The company says its plans would create 17 additional jobs and contribute 'positively to local employment, skills development and economic resilience within Port Erin'.

It says: "The proposal represents the beneficial reuse of an under-performing site, delivering an appropriate retail and food use within an established settlement.'

The full change of use application can be seen here.