Residents in Queen’s Park who are fighting to save their local pub from developers have won their battle for the building to be listed as an Asset of Community Value.
Queen’s Park Residents Association (QPRA) successfully lodged an application for The Corrib Rest in Salusbury Road to be given the status.
Concerns have been growing over its future after its new owners closed it ‘for refurbishment’ in February fuelling fears that it may never reopen.
The pub which was previously the Aras na Gael centre is seen as an important hub for the Irish community.
Today Brent Council announced the decision to grant the ACV which means its use as a community venue is considered when reviewing any future planning applications.
Janis Denselow, chair of QPRA, said: “At QPRA we are really happy that residents get to have a conversation with the developers and be part of ongoing conversations.
She added: “There is no going back. We’re unsure what the future holds but this will hopefully give residents a voice and influence what happens in this corner of Queen’s Park.”
If the pub owner’s decide to sell the building and a community group are interested in buying it they are given six months to raise the necessary funds.
Cllr Margaret McLennan, Brent Council’s lead member for housing and development, said: “I am delighted that the Corrib Rest has been listed as an Asset of Community Value and will continue to serve the local community as a venue for weddings, classes and socialising.
“It is important that we preserve the heritage and character of the borough by protecting spaces that act as hubs for our wonderfully diverse communities.”
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