Plans to convert old school in Falsgrave, the former Bed King building, into a pub which would be 'local community hub'

Belinda Leppington wants to transform the old Falsgrave County Modern Girls School building in Falsgrave Road into a drinking establishment.

The building, known as the Clock Tower and most recently home to the Bed King shop and warehouse, is located in one of Scarborough’s busiest areas but has been empty for more than three years.

It is one of the best-known landmarks in that area of town, and stands on the corner with Sitwell Street. For several months it has been shrouded in scaffolding.

Mrs Leppington, who had previously been the landlord of the nearby Crown Tavern for three years, has outlined her plans to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

She said: “We would like the bar to be a local community hub.

“This would be the only privately and completely free of ties public house in the Falsgrave area which would enable us to source locally brewed drinks for the enjoyment of customers.

“We are working with consultees to allow us to retain as much as possible of the interior of the old school building, however, there are some issues which may mean things may have to changed but this will be kept to a minimum.

“Sound proofing is an issue we are investigating at the moment to prevent noise nuisance.”

Mrs Leppington said she is “open to suggestions” from locals on a name for the premises, with something to tie into the buildings history under consideration.

A number of letters of support have been sent by members of the public urging the council to grant the change of use to allow the pub to open.

One states: “I feel this would be a great addition to the Falsgrave area and community, this is an up and coming area of Scarborough which for a long time was neglected and deprived.

“Any chance to increase popularity, footfall, and revenue in the area must be an obvious decision to make.

“Having been a local resident for many years, I embrace all opportunities to increase the recognition Falsgrave deserves, let along further enjoy all that this great area will have to offer myself and my family.”

North Yorkshire Police has also responded saying that with “relevant measures” implemented during the licensing process, which is required for alcohol to be served, it would be unlikely there would be “negative consequences” on crime and disorder in the area.

The former school building was built in 1873 and at first catered for boys and girls before becoming a girls’ only school after World War Two. It closed in 1964.