A historic pub in west London, the Hammersmith Ram, has closed after 300 years and been replaced by a discount store selling household goods and suitcases. The abrupt change has drawn sharp criticism from local residents who describe the transformation as "absolutely shameful" and express concern over the increasing number of similar retail establishments in the area.
The pub served its final pint on July 26. Young's brewery, the owner, stated that the decision to close was made after a "careful review." This marks the second pub closure on King Street within the last year, a trend attributed in part to strains on the hospitality sector.
The freehold of the property was acquired by Hammersmith Realty Ltd, which is controlled by Amin Properties Holdings Ltd and Arora Family Legacy Ltd. Hammersmith & Fulham Council has initiated an investigation into a potential planning breach, as no change of use application was reportedly filed before the premises became a shop.
Residents have voiced their dismay over the rapid conversion. "It's absolutely terrible. We need another one of those when we've got one up there," said Tony Lewis, a former patron who frequented the pub for Sunday lunch. Sandra and Bill Orr, who had visited the pub just a week before its closure, expressed their disappointment, calling the new shop "a loss to the community."
Many locals feel the proliferation of discount stores detracts from the character of the high street. "It's not good for the community. I don't think it should be allowed," commented resident Hutchinson, 81. Another resident, Michael Pirth, 77, questioned the necessity of another similar store, stating, "It's a loss to the community."
However, not all responses were negative. John and Darren, who purchased items from the new store, acknowledged the changing landscape of the pub industry. "The pub industry's gone hasn't it really. It's a good little shop, so, if you want a bargain," one of them remarked.
Arora Family, one of the entities involved in the property's ownership, reportedly owns numerous other retail and commercial properties across west London. Amin Properties is understood to be controlled by Parth Dinubhai Amin.
A spokesperson for Young's stated that while the Hammersmith Ram was a "much-loved part of Young's," the decision to close was part of a regular portfolio review. The brewery reaffirmed its commitment to supporting pubs as community hubs.
The council confirmed its investigation into the potential planning regulation breach concerning the change of use from a public house to a commercial shop.