Hythe residents fighting plan to convert Malt and Hops pub

Campaigners are fighting an application to convert the Malt and Hops, in Hythe, which "closed for refurbishment" in May 2023 and has not reopened.

Protesters include the former landlady, Stella Fletcher, who ran the popular watering hole for 11 years.

In a letter to New Forest District Council, which will determine the application, she describes the Malt and Hops as a community asset that is part of Hythe's heritage.

The proposed new nursery will be run by Sarah Reynard, left, and Abbie Sleeman, if the scheme is approved (Image: Contributed)

Mrs Fletcher says the South Street pub did "so much more" than sell alcohol.

It boasted six mixed darts teams and two pool teams that played weekly league matches. On evenings when no activities were taking place, people were able to relax in a warm environment, reading books or chatting with friends.

READ MORE: Malt and Hops pub in Hythe could be converted into day nursery under plans submitted to district council

Mrs Fletcher adds: "The pub has also provided a free venue for private parties, birthday celebrations, wedding receptions, and funeral wakes.

"I urge you not to allow this well-used pub to be taken away from the heart of the community."

The application will be determined by New Forest District Council, which is based at Appletree Court in Lyndhurst (Image: Newsquest)

Fellow objector Deborah Child, of Hollybank, Hythe, says: "The landlady was popular and worked hard to hard to keep this lovely space. It would not be an ideal nursery space due to lack of parking and a safe drop-off space."

James Powell, of Shepherds Hey Road, Totton, describes the pub as a historic and valued amenity.

He adds: "We should preserve this as a music venue for upcoming talent to be nurtured and encouraged. We have limited facilities of this nature in the area and it will be a loss to the community if its use changed."

READ MORE: Meet the duo planning to turn historic pub into South Street, Hythe, into day nursery

Darren Smith, of Shoblands Way, Hythe, is also urging the council to reject the nursery plan.

His letter says: "The Malt is one of the only original pubs in the New Forest. Keep our heritage alive."

The building's owner, Sean Perry, of Two Hats Ltd, has described the business as unviable after citing the cost of roof repairs and other issues.

"No pub chain in their right mind would take it in this state."

Mr Perry said he had intended to refurbish the Malt and Hops for his daughter, who runs a pub in Brockenhurst, but after she had a baby it was no longer an option.

He added: "I was burning money on an empty building."

The proposed new nursery will be run by Sarah Reynard and Abbie Sleeman if the application is approved.

Sarah has said: "It’s got so many opportunities for children to use their imagination."