Residents have been celebrating this week as a popular Homerton pub became the second in the borough to be awarded council planning protection.

The Prince Edward Pub, in Wick Road, has been granted Asset of Community Value status.

This adds an additional layer of planning protection to the landmark; the owner of an asset of community value must inform the council if they wish to sell it. If a group wants to buy the asset, they can trigger a six-month delay, to give them a chance to raise money to purchase the asset.

Built in 1886, the pub has been used by the community for generations and is renowned for its soul, reggae and Irish trad nights which provide a warm community atmosphere for older people to enjoy.

The move is a victory for determined campaigners the Friends of Prince Edward, who in 2012 rallied against the owner of the property after plans were submitted to demolish the pub and transform the site into residential flats.

The planning application was refused in light of the social and cultural importance of the venue.

The Prince Edward follows in the footsteps of The Chesham Arms, which was given an ACV status earlier this year and after closing in 2012, the 150-year-old east end public house, opened its doors again this month.

Josh Clarke from the Friends of the Prince Edward group, said: “With so many pubs closing locally and across the UK that are no longer being able to cater to the local community, its great news that The Prince Edward has been given this planning protection from the Council.

“The Prince Edward is a decent, affordable and well attended local boozer, with a great atmosphere that caters for all areas of the community both young and old. There aren’t many pubs like this left that provide people a comfortable and affordable space outside their living room to meet and socialise with friends and family. We’re determined to keep the historic Prince Edward open for everyone today and for the local community to use in the many years ahead.”

Cllr Guy Nicholson, Cabinet member for regeneration, said: “Pubs play an important role in the daily life of communities and a local economy. Once these spaces are lost to other uses it is very rare to see a return to there original purpose. There is little doubt in Hackney that we are experiencing a renaissance of the local pub, a new generation of entrepreneurs recognise the opportunity and the importance these buildings present.

“The swift response from the Friends of the Prince Edward group for applying and being awarded the Asset of Community Value status is an important step towards securing the future of this Hackney pub.”