Cllr Chewe Munkonge is inviting residents to share their views and ideas for the future of the historic Crown & Thistle Pub in Headington.
The Old Road pub has been a local landmark since the mid-19th century, originally replacing the 17th-century Titup Hall coaching inn. But the building has fallen into disrepair since the pub’s closure in 2011.
In 2022, a planning application proposed demolishing the pub to build up to nine new homes. This was followed by a similar planning application in 2024. The building has been listed on the Oxford Heritage Asset Register. This list has been developed by Oxford City Council, English Heritage, the Oxford Preservation Trust, and local communities to recognise their history and significance.
But the future of this historic site remains uncertain. Some residents want to see this pub restored, while others support its redevelopment into housing.
Meanwhile, the Labour Government has announced measures that could help save community pubs like the Crown & Thistle. Through a new Community Right to Buy, local people will be handed the power to buy derelict buildings – including pubs – and turn them around.
Chewe says: “As the local councillor for Quarry & Risinghurst, I am committed to representing the community’s views and ensuring all voices are heard. Please share your opinions and feedback by emailing me at [email protected].”
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- 23 September 2022 ‘permission in principle’ application refused – “Re-development of the former public house for between 7no. and 9no. dwellings (Use Class C3) (All matters of design including scale, demolition and/or conversion and all technical matters reserved for future application)” – https://mycouncil.oxford.gov.uk/mgIssueHistoryHome.aspx?IId=30239.
- 10 January 2024 ‘permission in principle’ application refused – “the re-development of the former public house for between 1no. and 9no. dwellings (Use Class C3) (All matters of design including scale, demolition and/or conversion and all technical matters reserved for future application)” – https://public.oxford.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=S3P68EMF19P00&activeTab=summary&fbclid=IwY2xjawNjKv1leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHmRPEQ3dr2elaVboeHC8moRBdiAtt_QFow2uFk7o6ZE52-YLk08t2fjhVBPb_aem_RoPDRH9sF1FA7k3q9QrIuQ
- Oxford Heritage Asset Register – https://www.oxford.gov.uk/oxford-heritage-asset-register/heritage-asset-register
- Community Right to Buy – https://www.gov.uk/government/news/communities-to-seize-control-over-high-streets-and-restore-pride