'Iconic' Westminster pub unanimously saved from redevelopment

A planning inspector had previously recommended that the application be turned down because the loss of the pub would be ‘detrimental’ to the local community.

Campaigner Grazyna Green said: “Westminster council have done a wonderful job. The whole community is so supportive of the pub because of the community value it brings. It has such historical value and goes back further than any of the houses in the area.”

The move has been welcomed by fellow publicans, including Andrew Fishwick owner of the award-winning Truscott Arms.

Truscott told the Publican’s Morning Advertiser​: “The historic, beautiful and iconic Clifton Hotel - after some dedicated campaigning from the Save The Clifton Campaign group, led by the utterly inspiring Grazyna Green with the able and always professional support of Dale Ingram (Planning For Pubs) - has not only been listed as a worthy asset of community value but has also successfully beaten attempts to gain planning permission for yet another bland mansion in St John’s Wood.

“Mary Jane and I at The Truscott Arms have been vocal supporters of this campaign. We will do everything within our power to facilitate The Clifton's return to its proper place as a pub at the very heart of its community.”

King Edward VII is said to have had secret trysts at the pub with his mistress Lillie Langtry.