THE Bridge at Napton (often referred to as the Napton Bridge), by bridge 111 of the Oxford Canal, has joined the list of pubs under threat from developers, writes David Hymers.
At present it is still open, but a planning application has been submitted to demolish it and build five houses on the site.
By the towpath
The pub, which once belonged to Davenports, has been a free house and restaurant for many years, and has been very popular, though somewhat run down in recent years. It is conveniently situated for boaters, being by the towpath and with extensive CaRT moorings outside. There is even a winding hole. It is very popular with hire boaters, especially for the first or last nights of their trips, since it is within a mile of no fewer than three hire bases and not that far from others.
The more people who send in objections, the more notice they are likely to take. As well as the loss of amenity to canal travellers, it might be worth mentioning that the proposed development is well outside the village envelope of Napton and that five houses would be over-development of what is in effect a greenfield site.
The Planning Authority is Stratford District Council and the details are:
Reference 15/03245/FUL Napton Bridge Inn
Mr Dan Charles
Stratford District Council
Planning Department
Elizabeth House
Church Street
Stratford-upon-Avon
CV37 6HX
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