Former pub used for 'illegal activities' set to be turned into shared home

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Three pubs across Tameside are proposed to be converted into shared houses under new plans. Separate applications have been lodged for The Stocks Inn in Stalybridge, the Clarence Hotel in Hyde and the Angel Hotel in Ashton-under-Lyne with Tameside council.

If successful, all three buildings would be converted into houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). The Clarence Hotel would also have its ground floor and basement converted into retail units.

The Angel Hotel on Old Street in Ashton is proposed to become a shared house across three floors for 15 people, with new front dormers and a single storey extension at the rear.

Documents submitted in support of the application by Suraj Majevadia state the property has been ‘vacant for many years’. “The property is currently in poor condition and has been used for illegal activities in the past which has had a huge negative impact on the property over the years,” the report states. “The new owner and proposed development would greatly improve the quality of the conservation area boundary.” READ MORE: 'The north was promised the earth, but could be let down once again - it's madness' READ MORE: 'In the dark' mayor and council leader write to Rishi Sunak over 'massive ramifications' of axing HS2 to Manchester It adds the ‘day to day needs of the community’ will not be ‘harmed’ by the loss of the pub: “The previous owner concluded that there was an insufficient turnover at the property to provide an adequate and sustainable income for a tenant. “For this reason, a decision was made to permanently close the pub and to sell as it was clear that due to the pub not making sufficient profits.” The reports add that the main ‘beautiful and ornate’ frontage with its blue tiles will be