Save The Hare & Hounds
YOU CAN HELP SAVE OUR LOCAL PUB
And not just any old pub! The Hare & Hounds in Northbourne, an iconic public house dating back to 1628, stands as a living piece of Kent’s history. For nearly four centuries, it has withstood wars, economic upheavals, and even modern pandemics. Generations have gathered here to share stories, celebrate milestones, and forge lifelong friendships. Its central location in the heart of our rural village has long made it a natural hub for community life—spilling over into the wider parish—where neighbours support one another in times of both joy and sadness.
Now, this beloved pub is under threat. A new owner intends to close the Hare & Hounds, convert it into a private dwelling, and build three additional houses on its car park. This proposal, benefiting only the developer, would strip our community of a vital social space that has been our beating heart for centuries.
A lack of investment by previous owners has left the building in disrepair, but this in no way proves the pub itself is not viable. The Hare & Hounds can thrive again under the stewardship of someone willing to restore its historic charm, upgrade its facilities, and perhaps expand its dining capacity. With proper investment, there is every reason to believe this cherished meeting place can once more become a vibrant and profitable enterprise.
A passionate group of residents has formed S.T.O.P (Save This Old Pub) to oppose the change of use and protect our heritage. We believe that losing the Hare & Hounds would deliver a permanent blow to the social fabric of this village. If planning consent is refused, the pub could be purchased by a responsible buyer at a realistic price—someone committed to preserving its legacy for future generations.
If you share our commitment to safeguarding this essential rural amenity, please make your voice heard. Visit the Dover District Council planning website www.dover.gov.uk/Planning/Planning.aspx and follow these steps:
1. Select “Planning Applications”
2. Click “View Applications”
3. Enter 24/01332 in the search box
4. Click “Comment” to submit your views
#northbourne #community #object #hareandhounds
Objection from the Parish Council
Hare and Hounds 24_01332 Northbourne PC Objectionv2.0 (1).pdf
The Parish Counci has submitted an application to Dover District Council to list the pub as an asset of community value.
The process is quite long but hopefully worth doing.
Any questions, please contact the clerk: clerk@northbourne-pc.gov.uk
