Queen Victoria Cottage & The Volunteer Public House – Planning Decision

Waverley Borough Council has informed us that it intends to “vigorously resist” the BVS application for a further Judicial Review, regarding the Council’s decision to permit the change of use of the Villagers to private residential accommodation.

Throughout this process, our communications have reflected our legal advisers’ positive assessment of the case and its prospects. However, they have also made clear that there remains significant financial risk should the outcome be unfavourable. After careful consideration, the BVS has therefore taken the difficult and reluctant decision not to pursue the matter further.

While the BVS remains firmly convinced of the strength and fairness of its case, the Council has made clear that it is unwilling to reconsider the decision or reach a resolution that would avoid the need for further substantial costs and a full Judicial Review hearing. This leaves the BVS in a challenging position. Unlike the Council, which is able to rely on public funds both to finance litigation and to cover potential liabilities, the BVS must depend entirely on the goodwill and private contributions of local residents and supporters.

Continuing the case would require substantial additional funding. Unfortunately, despite generous support from many individuals, the crowdfunding initiative has not raised sufficient funds to make this possible. In light of these circumstances, the BVS has concluded that it cannot reasonably ask the village and surrounding community to provide the further funding required.

It is therefore with great regret that we must announce that the twelve-year campaign to save the Villagers has come to an end, even though the property was listed for 5 years as an Asset of Community Value from November 2025.

All residents and supporters who contributed financially through the Crowd Justice campaign will receive a full refund of their contributions:https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/save-the-villagers-pub/

Finally, we would like to express our sincere thanks to the many people who have supported this effort over the years, whether through donations, time, or encouragement. We are fortunate to live in a community that cares so deeply about its village.

Blackheath Village Society