The Planning Inspector has ruled against the appeal by the owner of The Plough against Dacorum’s decision to refuse permission for it to be converted to a residential dwelling. The ruling is relatively short and well worth a read, but a key section states “The appeal property was designated as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) by the Council in July 2018, as it was considered to ‘further the social wellbeing or social interests of the local community’. This designation was attributed to its ongoing use as a public house, hosting a community library/book swap facility, and it acting as a community hub for charity and other public events. Based on the extent of representations received, it is clear that this community use prevails, and is something which is valued by local residents”.