Church Charity Withdraws Proposal to Transform Whitchurch Pub

A proposal to convert the former pub, The Highgate, in Whitchurch into a ten-bedroom home has been withdrawn by the Philippines-based Free Believers in Christ Fellowship. The church charity aimed to repurpose the 1930s building, which has been closed as a pub since 1996, into a conference venue with accommodations and a dining hall.

The Highgate has a history of changes in use. Initially serving as a public house, it transitioned to the headquarters of local removals business Denmans after receiving planning permission in 1996. Following Denmans’ relocation, the Free Believers in Christ Fellowship acquired the property, adding to its network of 13 bases across England, with its main office situated in Whitchurch.

In 2023, the charity proposed to transform The Highgate into a venue featuring 11 en-suite bedrooms and a dining hall, alongside a new community hall structure. However, planning officers at Shropshire Council raised concerns about the potential increase in vehicle traffic generated by the hall, given that the site only accommodates 17 parking spaces. Consequently, the council refused to grant permission for the change of use, citing safety issues related to highway access.

The church submitted its latest proposal, complete with drawings and floor plans, in October 2023. However, on December 16, 2023, Shropshire Council confirmed that the application had been officially withdrawn. As a result, no further determination regarding the proposed changes will be made.

The withdrawal reflects the ongoing challenges faced by community organizations in navigating planning regulations and local opposition. The Free Believers in Christ Fellowship’s vision for The Highgate as a community venue will now require re-evaluation as they consider their next steps in this process.