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Search the Public Notice PortalCampaigners have warned that a historic pub might be at risk after new signs “that look like the Playboy logo” were put up outside.
The Prince Edward in Wick Road, Hackney, is currently shut, having been refurbished as part of a wider development that has seen a block of flats built behind the watering hole.
But the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) has raised the alarm about the future of the venue as a pub after new signs were put up outside.
Camra's pub protection adviser James Watson said that the operator, Play Ldn, has a logo that “looks like Playboy's”.
The windows to the venue, which describes itself as a late-night restaurant, have also been blacked out.
According to Play Ldn's Instagram, it is set to open its doors on June 6.
“On the face of things, it looks slightly peculiar,” Mr Watson said. “It does not look like the sort of pub that was there before.”
Play Ldn told the Hackney Gazette that its logo is “similar (to) but definitely not the same” as Playboy.
“The windows are opaque due to our sound insulating them to prevent noise escape which might disturb neighbours,” they added.
Mr Watson has now pointed out that when planning permission was granted in 2019 for the redevelopment of the Prince Edward, developer Johal Properties (London) Limited had said it would be retained as a pub.
He added that the approved plans also showed translucent windows and a traditional pub hanging sign.
“Planning consent was for retention of a pub,” Mr Watson explained. “Hackney Council has strong policies designed to protect pubs and prevent their loss."
The Victorian pub is locally listed and designated an asset of community value (ACV) by Hackney Council.
The local authority has now confirmed that it has received a complaint about the former Prince Edward pub, adding that its planning enforcement team is investigating.
Johal Properties has been approached for comment through its planning consultant, NTA Planning.
According to Play Ldn, there has been “no breach of planning or licensing law”.
A spokesperson added: “We are aware of the current state of the UK hospitality industry, which continues to face enormous pressures.
“We hope that local residents will support independent venues like Play Ldn at the Prince Edward, which are working to bring life back to the sector responsibly and in compliance with all relevant laws.”
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