Plans to redevelop a derelict and disused pub in Winkfield have been given the go ahead by the council. 

A new pub-restaurant will replace run down former boozer The Squirrels, situated on North Street, which, having been left empty since 2017, had made residents’ lives a nightmare' due to the anti-social behaviour and vermin problems that came with its closure. 

In the planning statement, architects Abracad said it “didn’t know” whether the new eater would be able to survive but wanted to give it “every encouragement” as the existing property is listed as an Asset of Community Value (ACV). 

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As part of the plan, the existing building will be replaced with a three-storey property comprising a pub/restaurant located on the ground floor, as well as two two-bedroom flats on the first floor and a further two two-bedroom flats on the second floor. 

There will also three new five-bedroom homes built, facing North Street. 

The proposed opening hours for the pub are midday to 11pm Sunday to Thursday and midday to 1am Friday to Saturday. 

Abracad notes that, should it fail, the building design will allow for “possible alternative change of use” in the form of offices or three more flats. 

Councillor Moira Gaw, who represents Winkfield and Cranbourne and has been working with residents over the past few years to try and restore the site, said the plan has “terrific local support”.