Controversial plans to turn Ricky pub into Thai massage centre approved - Yahoo News UK

[Huw Richards]

Plans to turn a Grade II listed timber-framed pub into a Thai massage centre have been approved.

The Tree, on the corner of Church Lane and Uxbridge Road in Rickmansworth, shut down in 2019.

The Tree now, following works to prevent it falling into disrepair in 2023 (Image: Cllr Mike Sims.) Although a campaign to save it resulted in much-needed repairs and work to secure the site, it has remained vacant ever since.

A change of use application submitted to Three Rivers District Council sought permission to convert it into a Thai massage establishment, which also involves changing the internal layout to create treatment rooms, a reception area, and retail space.



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Plans were approved on Friday (May 23), but a decision notice is yet to be published.

Ten objections were made to the proposal, with some highlighting lack of parking provision and others arguing the building should remain as a pub.

The Tree had previously been known as The Rose and Crown. (Image: Watford Observer) According to application documents, “sensitively” adapting the building in this way “ensures minimal intervention to the historic fabric of the building while securing its maintenance and future viability”.

They add that: “The new use will prevent the building from falling into disrepair, ensuring its long-term preservation.”



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The Tree was allegedly marketed over nine months after closure, during which time it was viewed 25 times, but no offers to buy it for use as a pub were made.

Any interest was apparently largely with a view to residential development.