A century-and-a-half old pub in Penarth could become a set of new flats if development plans are approved.
Ragan Properties Ltd has lodged plans with Vale of Glamorgan Council to turn the Clive Arms Hotel at 31 John Street into three two-bedroom apartments.
Currently, the pub, which closed in early 2026 after 150 years in business, is comprised of two floors and a basement area and has been a staple fixture of John Street since the late 19th century.
Before it closed, it was believed to be one of the town’s oldest surviving pubs..
The application reads: “This proposal addresses the evolving needs of the local area, recognising the increasing demand for smaller, well-situated residential units.”
It continues: “It also responds to the reduced viability of traditional public houses due to shifting social and economic trends.
“The scheme represents an opportunity to revitalise an underutilised building, placing it into beneficial and sustainable use.”
Development plans have been “carefully considered” to ensure that the external appearance remains “sympathetic” to its surroundings, while internally delivering “high-quality, functional living accommodations that meet modern standards”, as per planning documents.
According to the application, off-road car parking provision is “unachievable” for the new flats.
It reads: “Street parking is appropriate as the allocation is greatly reduced in requirement in comparison to the current use and the nature of the proposed use is more likely to be conducive to public transport use by the new occupants.”
The “philosophy” of the proposed works is to “maintain and minimise” disruption to the existing character of the surrounding area.
Materials chosen for the development will be selected to provide a “continuation of the aesthetics of the existing surrounding buildings; this will sustain the existing built environment.”
All pub signage and shutters will be removed from the property to “reflect a residential character”, if approved.
The area around the pub is described as “terrace street scene”.
The application reads: “While these buildings seem to be competently built and designed, they lack the architectural significance to influence the current proposals.”
”This terrace faces a similar elevated terrace to the front and the garden of detached properties, at a lower elevation, to the rear.”
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