FURTHER to my letter of May 19, I can confirm that The Oddfellows Arms in Cirencester has been sold to a local family, who have applied to Cotswold District Council (CDC) for “change of use” into a single dwelling.

If the people of Cirencester are opposed to the loss of this gem of a pub, they should go on the CDC website and state their objections before June 9.

‘Save the Oddfellows Group’ has formed in order to apply to the CDC for The Oddfellows to be given ACV (Asset of Community Value) status. 

The group recently spoke to residents along the whole length of Chester Street and was overwhelmed with the strength of feeling against the loss of their pub.

The immediate neighbours are in support of the application, but on the grounds of excessive noise in recent years. 

I believe that due to its setting, The Oddfellows should not have a music license and should be a quiet place to meet and eat. 

The elderly residents of Cambray Court are particularly upset, as they have used the pub for many years for a weekly luncheon.

I believe The Oddfellows Arms has the potential to thrive again and return to being the heartbeat of the community.

It is a unique piece of living heritage in a conservation area, keeping Chester Street a working historical street.

RUSSELL BLACKALLER 
Cirencester