The landlord of the Blowing Stone Inn in Kingston Lisle has submitted an application to the Vale of White Horse District Council seeking permission to convert the pub, which has been a part of the community for nearly a century. The council is currently reviewing the application, with a decision expected by August 11.
The proposed conversion has stirred significant opposition within the community, with over 100 objections from local residents voicing their concerns. For many, the Blowing Stone Inn is more than just a pub—it’s an integral part of the village’s social fabric. Vanessa Marment, a long-time resident of Kingston Lisle, highlighted the pivotal role the pub has played in the village over the past two decades. She described the establishment as a vital amenity and a focal point for social interaction.
Marment emphasized that the Blowing Stone is irreplaceable. While Kingston Lisle has a village hall, she noted that it doesn’t provide the same welcoming atmosphere or function as a well-run pub. With no comparable establishment in the vicinity, the loss of the Blowing Stone would leave a significant void in the community.
The landlord, who took over the pub in September 2020, has not commented publicly on the application. The proposed conversion would involve minimal changes to the pub’s exterior, while some outbuildings would be removed to construct a garage. A viability report prepared on behalf of the landlord asserted that the Blowing Stone is no longer financially sustainable. The report also indicated there is little interest from potential buyers interested in acquiring the property as a pub.
The application has sparked a broader conversation about the value of pubs as community spaces and the challenges they face in remaining economically viable. For those concerned about the potential loss of a treasured village hub, the Blowing Stone represents much more than just a business—it’s a cornerstone of local life.
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