8 February 2021
Vara takes action to clear up derelict pub

Shailesh Vara MP has taken action to have a derelict pub in Stanground, Peterborough cleared and secured following years of neglect.

Mr Vara was contacted by his constituent Oliver Sainsbury regarding concerns for the dilapidated Golden Lion pub in Stanground and the anti-social behaviour and drug use that was taking place there.  

Shailesh Vara MP and Oliver Sainsbury
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Shailesh Vara MP and Oliver Sainsbury

Mr Vara visited the premises with Mr Sainsbury and saw first-hand the evident issues of waste build up and drug paraphernalia. Following his visit, Mr Vara wrote to the owner of the premises as well as Peterborough City Council to ensure that action was taken to secure and clean the site. Mr Vara also asked the parties to seek a long term solution, given that the site has been derelict for many years with no improvements made.

The owner has now taken action by clearing the waste and is installing secure fencing which will deter further misuse.

Mr Vara said:

“I am very pleased that Oliver Sainsbury brought this matter to my attention and it is good to see that the owner has taken action to clear and secure the site of the Golden Lion pub. Given its prominent position in the local area, the appearance of the site heavily impacts the local community and therefore it was important that improvements were made and measures put in place to deter the misuse of the site.  

“I very much hope that a long term solution is forthcoming and that the owner can work with Peterborough City Council and the local community to secure a permanent way forward.”

Oliver Sainsbury added:

“The Golden Lion Pub has been an eyesore for local residents for quite some time, with fly tipping regularly taking place. I am very pleased that whilst working with Mr Vara, we have managed to clean up the site and make it secure, which I know is appreciated by many people in the area.”