Doncaster planning officers criticised for saying pub conversion in Fishlake has 'low risk of flooding'

An application was successfully approved by councillors for the Old Anchor Inn pub on Main Street in Fishlake converted into eight apartments.

The village hit the national news back in November after the River Don burst its banks. An evacuation of the whole area was ordered.

But planning officer Gary Hilldersley at a recent meeting said the application site was one of the ‘few places in the village’ that didn’t flood.

A report compiled by DMBC planning officer Mark Ramsey, said part of the site was within Flood Zone 2 but the majority was not in this flood zone and was therefore the ‘risk of flooding if considered to be low’.

But one Fishlake resident who was affected by the flooding said the comments in the report were ‘ludicrous’.

The resident, who didn't wished to be named said: “I can’t believe that It’s said to be low risk - no one in their right mind can say that any part Fishlake is at low risk of flooding after what’s happened.

“I’m extremely surprised by this - I’d like to know what evidence they used. If it’s from the Environment Agency then why isn’t someone questioning it?

“I know the cellar of the pub flooded so it isn’t like it’s totally safe. It doesn’t give you a lot of confidence to be honest. It’s an absolutely ludicrous claim to make.”

Residents submitted an application to have the pub registered as an asset of community value, but this was rejected by Doncaster Council.

In the report seen by councillors, Mr Ramsey said: “The proposal is considered to be an appropriate use in the residential policy area and is acceptable in the conservation area and the alterations and extensions retain its character as a key building.

“The development is not considered to harm the amenities of adjacent occupiers and provides sufficient parking in line with the standards set out in planning guidance.”