The Trafalgar Arms has been added to Wandsworth Council’s register of Community Assets following a campaign led by Dan Watkins, Tooting resident and local Conservative Parliamentary Candidate. TheTrafalgar Arms, on Tooting High Street, is a historic and popular pub used by local residents and community groups, but in July was bought by a property developer and immediately closed.
Dan commented: “We are delighted that Wandsworth Council has accepted our application to list theTrafalgar Arms as an Asset of Community Value (ACV). This is a crucial first step to ensuring that the site once again has a thriving pub which serves the local community.
“We have lost several 4 pubs in this part of Tooting in recent years, as developers look to acquire land on which to build flats. While we are supportive of building additional homes, it is crucial that some local amenities are kept so that Tooting remains a fun and vibrant place to live.
The plight of the pub was first raised by Chris White, a long-time local of the Trafalgar Arms. Having contacted Dan for help, it was decided that campaigning for the site to be registered as an ACV would give the most immediate protection.
Chris, who is the Chair of the Trafalgar Arms Supporters, states: 'Now that we have demonstrated the level of community support for the pub we are in the best possible position to ensure that any future planning application accommodates the wishes of local residents'.