Mansfield social club to avoid demolition with apartment blueprints

Boothy’s on the corner of West Hill Drive, Mansfield, closed its doors for good in January and it was expected that the old building would be bulldozed to make way for new development.

However, an application has since been submitted to Mansfield District Council to refurbish the site rather than knock it down.

The plans outline an intention to transform the two-storey property into three six-bedroom flats.

The applicant, Gedling-based Stony Developments Ltd, specialises in providing accommodation for working people who require residence on short or medium-term basis.

In a statement provided by the applicant, it reads: “Typically, these include working professionals on short-term contracts, or people moving to the area who need accommodation prior to purchasing their own homes.

“These properties are furnished and are of a high standard.

“The use of the building will have little impact on the amenities of existing local residents when compared to the previous use with its

late-night openings, music and general coming and goings.”

According to the plans, each resident would enjoy an en-suite bathroom with each flat having a communal living room and kitchen.

The only plans for demolition are an existing toilet block with the rear yard to be used to provide defined parking spaces for up to 11 cars.

The parking area would be accessed from Woodhouse Road, similar to when the yard was used for parking at the club.

Formerly the old Labour Club, Jenny and Jeff Booth bought the premises 23 years ago and named it after themselves.

Earlier this year they took the tough decision to step down with Jeff reaching 70 and Jenny aged 69.

As a freehold, the couple were never tied to a brewery which allowed the club to continue despite falling trade.

With the number of social clubs dwindling, Jeff and Jenny put the club on the market told the Chad that the fully expected it to be snapped up and demolished to make way for housing.