The Half Moon, Herne Hill's iconic pub, has been closed since the disastrous flood of August 2103.
The current building dates from 1896, but the freehold has been owned by the Dulwich Estate for centuries. After the 2013 flood the licensee surrendered his lease.
The Dulwich Estate wanted to re-open the pub, but as part of a scheme that would see new uses for the upper storeys. There were preliminary discussions with Southwark planners (and a short public consultation) about converting the upper floors into flats.
Southwark were against this idea, since they favour retention of the building as a pub, especially as it is Grade II* listed with a fine original interior. The current position is that Dulwich Estate has agreed in principle to let the building on a 25-year lease to a 'brewery' who will run the pub and convert the upper floor into 'rooms'.
The plans indicate a large restaurant at the back facing the garden and a live music venue in the old stables at the end of the garden.
The potential lessee has discussed its scheme with Historic England and Southwark Council planners. Historic England came back within a few days with minor comments but Southwark have yet to respond. No agreement will be signed until the lessee is aware of the Council's requirements.
The historic interior appears to be in a reasonable condition but the exterior is not. The building requires a new roof and this, together with the proposed alterations to the upper floors, means that the Half Moon is unlikely to re-open before the end of 2016 at the earliest.
See the Save Half Moon Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/savethehalfmoon/
Posted by: Arb Ol | 30 November 2015 at 06:55 PM