Kings Arms – latest news

For the latest news on the Kings Arms Public House , see the following press release by the letting agents, Sidney Phillips –

Leisure and hospitality specialist Sidney Phillips has successfully let the Kings Arms in Broomfield.
The Kings Arms is a substantial Grade II listed public house, dominating a notable roadside position on one of Chelmsford’s busiest arterial roads. It comprises a two-section bar, five bedroom accommodation, trade patio and car park, a blank canvass waiting to be refurbished and relaunched.
Despite the property has been vacant for a number of years, Sidney Phillips generated large amounts of interest from parties interested in acquiring both the freehold and leasehold interests.
Sidney Phillips has now brokered and completed the grant of a new free-of-tie lease to a regional multi-site operator, who intends to extensively refurbish the 17th Century property to create an appealing pub with boutique letting bedrooms.

Following reports of workmen in the pub and possible building works, see the following response from Chelmsford City Council Planning Enforcement Team –

Planning Enforcement Case 23/00329/ENFA – The Kings Arms, Main Road, Broomfield, CM1 7AU

I am writing to let you know the outcome of our investigations into the possible breach of planning control at the above address which you reported to us one week ago. This was concerning works to the listed building.
A site visit has been conducted and no evidence was found to suggest that any building/renovation works have occurred. The building appeared to be vacant at the time of the visit.
With this in mind, no breach of planning control has been found and the case will be closed.
The enforcement team have written to the tenant to remind them of the requirement to obtain the relevant consents prior to carrying out any works.

Please note that the opinions given are at officer level only and are without prejudice to any formal determination the Council may ultimately take in respect of this matter.

Broomfield Parish Council Chairman, Margaret Bleet, said

“We have applied for the pub to be an asset of community value.  This will still go ahead. That means that if the pub is put up for sale again within three years we get an opportunity to buy it.  We wish the new owners every success and hope that you will all be using it.”