Troubled Black Country pub to become flats as owners driven out by violent incidents
A troubled Rowley Regis pub where the owners were driven out by violent attacks will be turned into apartments.
Planning officers at Sandwell Council gave the green light to convert The Cock Inn, on Dudley Road, into nine one-and-two-bedroom flats.
The venue was shut after suffering from a string of problems including violence, anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping.
It is hoped the proposal, put forward by the owners listed as Mr and Mrs Johnson, will spell the end for the trouble previously suffered there.
Planning agents BSP Design said: “Over the years the applicant has seen a gradual decline to the business and has faced various incidents of anti-social behaviour and violence against him and his family, whilst running the business.
“In light of this he has decided to close the premises and redevelop the site to create essential affordable accommodation by way of small one and two-bed flats.
Nuisance
“Walking along the footpath in the dark can be quite intimidating especially for the elderly.
“The vacant land adjacent can attract anti-social behaviour and young males can be found congregating there late at night, smoking, drinking, causing a nuisance.
“The redevelopment of the public house will not only get rid of this problem it will also allow the refurbishment of the entire site, making it more attractive to neighbouring residents and more importantly safer during the evening.
“The site also attracts fly tipping and our client has on many occasions had to take rubbish to the local recycling centre, this then causes vermin infestation.
“Our client is therefore keen to develop the site which will hopefully remedy this problem too. The applicant therefore feels redevelopment on the site will hopefully resolve these issues.
“The flats will provide affordable accommodation for young couples or single professionals within the area.”
