Asda Plans New Convenience Store at Former Nottingham Pub Site

The future of the long-vacant Newcastle Arms pub in Nottingham has been determined following Asda‘s submission of plans to convert the property into a convenience store. The pub, located off the A610 Nuthall Road between Aspley and Old Basford, closed its doors during the Covid pandemic and has remained empty since.

In 2023, Star Pubs, which is owned by Heineken, announced plans to renovate the pub and reopen it under the new name, the “Old Hall.” However, those plans were later abandoned, and the property was sold to an undisclosed buyer in May 2024 for £475,000.

Asda’s Proposal and Planning Application

Asda’s planning application aims to transform the former pub into a store that meets the daily shopping needs of nearby residents. According to planning documents submitted to Nottingham City Council, the convenience store will have a limited range of products and is intended for “top-up” shopping. The planning agents stated, “Given the small-scale nature of the proposed convenience store, it is expected to meet the day-to-day shopping needs of those living nearby.”

While this change marks the end of the building’s use as a pub, planners indicated that minimal alterations would be made to the exterior of the structure. They asserted that the proposed store would enhance the vitality of the building and prevent it from falling into disrepair.

Asda’s representatives expressed confidence that there were “no reasons” to deny the planning permission, citing the design, layout, and environmental impact of the project as acceptable. The plans include tidying up the pub’s former car park, which would provide 19 parking spaces for customers, along with designated cycle parking.

Traffic Impact and Future Considerations

The planning documents suggest that the new store would generate approximately 42 vehicular trips during peak hours each day, which, according to Asda, would not significantly impact the local highway network. The site is described as accessible, encouraging both customers and staff to walk or cycle to the location.

The planning application will be reviewed by Nottingham City Council, with a decision expected by February 18, 2024. Asda has also proposed plans to occupy other vacant units at the Broad Marsh Car Park and Bus Station building, indicating a broader strategy to enhance retail options in the area.

As the transformation of the Newcastle Arms progresses, it reflects a growing trend of repurposing vacant public houses into convenience retail spaces, addressing community needs while revitalizing previously underutilized properties. The transition from pub to convenience store illustrates changing consumer habits and the ongoing evolution of local retail landscapes.