A POPULAR Ascot pub saved from demolition by an oak tree could yet be knocked down after developers submitted new housing plans.
The Royal Hunt, on New Road, has been closed since 2015 but housebuilders have wanted to add nine flats to the site since 2017.
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Two planning applications have been refused by Bracknell Forest planning bosses since then.
The second application was thrown out by the Planning Inspectorate after developers appealed the rejection, but an examiner took Bracknell Forest Council’s (BFC) side after claiming the development would mean cutting down an “important” protected oak tree.
Now developers Patrick Ruddy Homes have submitted a third, new plan to BFC which addresses concerns over the tree.
Updated proposals show no new hard surfacing will be added by the root protection area of the common oak.
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Applicants say this change means the works “will not have an adverse impact on the health of the trees” and the permission “should not be withheld.”
The pub, which is claimed to have been a popular drinking establishment for royal huntsmen when Ascot Racecourse was founded by Queen Anne in 1711, has been at the centre of a legal wrangle between developers, residents and councillors for the last five years.
A statement revealed The Royal Hunt Pub Community Group (TRHCG) was “delighted” with the Planning Inspectorate’s decision to refuse the plans in December 2019.
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Despite the new application being submitted, the Group has not given up hope developers will be forced away and the pub can one day be purchased by the community.
An appeal from the TRHCG read: “We need you to submit your objections to the latest planning application to demolish the Royal Hunt Pub.
“Housing developers hope that you will get objection fatigue.
“Please don't let them win. We ask for your patience, your resilience and your continuing support.”
So far, 22 objections have been received from residents unhappy with the plans.
Residents can view the plans by entering planning reference 20/00001/FUL at planapp.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/
The neighbour consultation expiry date is Sunday, February 9.
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