Pub near Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park ground could reopen

By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter

An empty Thornton Heath pub could soon be brought back to life if plans to reopen it are approved.

Croydon council’s licensing meeting met yesterday to consider an application for The Thomas Farley pub in the High Street.

It closed in 2016, but Sherica Spence wants to bring it back as a family-friendly pub which, in time, could provide space for community events in a basement.

Its location, near Crystal Palace Football Club’s ground, Selhurst Park, would also make it a popular spot for fans on match days.

Robert Sutherland, who spoke on behalf of Ms Spence, told the committee: “The aim very much is that it will be a family-friendly premises. It will be encouraging people within the local community to come into the premises.

“Certainly the basement area will form a space that can be used by groups within the community. It is hoped there will be other types of events, including craft fairs.”

One resident at the meeting raised concerns about noise for locals, particularly for those living in flats above the pub. However, he welcomed the fact door staff are proposed for days when Crystal Palace play.

Mr Sutherland said those living above had been contacted about the proposed changes and had not formally objected to the application.

The application was for the pub to be allowed to open from 10am-midnight Monday to Thursday and until 2.30am at the weekends.

The committee is expected to publish its decision in the next week.

Pictured top: A licensing application has been submitted to reopen the Thomas Farley (Picture: Google Street View)