Empty pub to be transformed into three flats

A former pub will be converted into three flats after planning officials rubber stamped a developer’s application.

The Best O’ Brass on Manchester Road in Mossley, which served its last pint in February 2023, will have one apartment on each of its three floors. 

However, an objection received by Tameside Council (TMBC) bemoaned a lack of parking places and an existing issue with rats: “There is an ongoing problem with the bins to the back of the Best O Brass premises, where bits are constantly blocking the pavement are overflowing and are plagued by vermin.  

“Adding more bins to this is only going to compound the problem.” 

TMBC planners said the building wasn’t registered as an Asset of Community Value and was within a three-minute walk of three other pubs in Bottom Mossley. 

In his report, Julian Jackson, TMBC’s Director of Place said: “With economic conditions considered and a number of operating public houses within close proximity, evidence bears that there is a not presently a viable position for the public house to trade from.  

“As such, the loss of the public house is accepted, particularly given its repurpose to provide residential accommodation within proximity of the local shopping centre.” 

The ground floor flat will have one bedroom with the other two having two bedrooms each.