Fate for last pub in Stirlingshire village set to be decided amid community concerns

The future of the last pub in a village in Stirlingshire is hanging in the balance as the community anxiously awaits a decision. Tavern 1851, a historical establishment in Buchlyvie, closed suddenly earlier this year, leaving locals hopeful for its revival. However, a planning application from Pop Staycations to convert the pub into short-term holiday lets has raised concerns among residents.

With a population of around 500, the village’s residents fear the loss of the pub would greatly impact the community’s social life and local living requirements. The planning application, which received 81 objections including from the local community council, is set to be reviewed by Stirling Council’s planning panel next week.

Opponents argue that converting the pub to holiday lets would deny the community the opportunity to preserve it as a pub in the future. They believe that the lack of advertising as a going concern before the closure prevented the community from exploring alternative options, such as a community buyout.

Despite the objections, the council’s planning officials have recommended conditional approval of the application, stating that the decision should be based on the proposed use of the land rather than the actions of the owner. Buchlyvie Community Council held a meeting to discuss the plans, with attendees voting to challenge the proposal.

Jessica Langford, chair of Buchlyvie Community Council, highlighted the importance of the pub as a social hub for the village and expressed concerns about the impact of short-term holiday lets on the community. In contrast, the developers believe their proposal will have a positive impact, showcasing the local area to responsible guests from around the world.

The fate of Tavern 1851 will be decided by councillors next week, amidst a passionate debate between those who value its role in the community and those who see potential in transforming it into holiday accommodation. Residents are eager to see whether the village’s last pub will continue to serve as a gathering place for locals or embark on a new chapter as holiday lets.

**Insights and Summary:** The battle over the fate of Tavern 1851 in Buchlyvie highlights the tension between preserving local community spaces and catering to evolving economic opportunities. The concerns raised by residents reflect a desire to maintain the social fabric of the village, rooted in the pub’s longstanding history as a meeting place. On the other hand, the developers’ vision for holiday lets underscores the shift towards tourism-driven economies. The outcome of this decision will not only determine the future of the pub but also shape the identity of the village and its community dynamics.