The site owners of the Salutation Public house in Framwellgate Moor have submitted a planning application which would see two flats upstairs and potentially the main part of the pub converted into two retail units. More details can be found at:

http://publicaccess.durham.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=NOPJ8HGDKVY00

Where the various documents can be seen. Whilst it is not at present confirmed that the pub itself will close, a letter from the Agents for the applicant states that the pub has not been viable for some time, and there are indications of interest in the use of the existing building  for other retail.

Cllr Hopgood has asked that a wider area of residents are consulted on the application, and if anyone has any comments please do email us so we can get a feeling for public opinion.

It would be a real shame to see another pub close, particularly one which has been around for over 150 years (I don’t know the exact age – anyone who does please let me know).

It would however also be a real shame to see a local iconic building deteriorate and if no way to keep the pub open could be found, a sensible alternative use would be essential.

We are currently looking at the application and waiting to see what local people think.

Road safety

I am also very concerned that if the pub was to be converted to shops, that the current road safety in this area is not good, and that the Council must make sure that there are improvements, especially if such new businesses were to be frequented by the elderly or younger people from the school or the college.

There has been long running issue with the bus gate and cars illegally going through it which despite repeated attempts by County Councillors and the Parish has not seen any successful action to stop the problem by the police or county council.

Equally, trying to get across the mini roundabout to  High Carr Road is also a serious issue, so any change of use at the Salutation would require serious consideration of safe access. The council is fully aware that there is a problem at this location as I have frequently challenged officers about safety in this area.