Popular pub with rave reviews to be turned into 'much-needed' convenience store
A popular community pub with a string of glowing reviews from drinkers is set to shut down.
One said the Waterside in Wilkin Road, Brownhills, treated them like “royalty” – but now it will be turned into a “much-needed” convenience store.
The application has been approved by Walsall Council. Developer BJST (UK) Ltd said the nearest current store was just under a mile away, which meant a lengthy walk for elderly people in the area.
It said there were several pubs close to the Waterside and its closure would not trigger a loss of facilities. Agent DPM Services Ltd said deliveries to the store would be after 10am to avoid disturbing neighbours.
It said: “The proposed change of use to convenience store will provide a much-needed local convenience store to the residents of Wilkin and Hednesford Road and their subsidiary outlets.
“The nearest convenience store is located just under a mile from Wilkin Road, in Shannon Drive (Morrisons Daily store) adjacent Brownhills school which serves that area, a considerable walk for the residents for the above-mentioned residents especially the elderly.
“The distance of the two stores will not affect existing and proposed trading due to both stores serving a large highly populated residential area.
“The loss of the existing public house is not seen as loss of a public amenity to the area as a there is another large public house with car parking (The Crown) approximate 10minutes walk from Wilkin Road located just off the junction of Wilkin Road and the A5 offering food and beverages.
“Two other licenses properties close by are the Prince of Wales located also on the Watling Street (A5) and the Hussey Arms on Chester Road North.”
“There is also a large Thai restaurant with parking facilities on the junction of Wilkin Road and Hednesford Road again approx 10minute walk from Wilkin Road.”
The Waterside has an average rating of 4.6 out of five on Google reviews, with a number praising “friendly” staff. One said: “They treat me like royalty.and give me free beer too.” Another said: “Very friendly staff and locals make you feel very welcome.”
