The Kentish Drovers, a Wetherspoons pub on Peckham High Street, served its final pint on Sunday, September 13, after the property was sold. The sale, confirmed by a JD Wetherspoon spokesperson, was completed on Friday, September 11, following the pub's listing for sale in July.
Sale and Closure Details
The pub had operated as a public house for 50 years, with Wetherspoons occupying the site for the latter half of that period. The closure marks the end of an era for a venue that was known as one of Peckham's most inclusive and affordable community hubs.
According to the spokesperson, the sale went through on September 11, and the pub closed two days later on September 13. The property at 71-79 Peckham High Street is now the subject of a planning application submitted by LCE Property Ltd in August.
Bingo Hall Proposals
The planning application seeks to convert the ground floor and basement of the building into a bingo venue. The planning statement describes the aim as attracting 'patrons of all ages' and being 'community orientated'. It also states: 'Beyond the gambling aspect, these venues act as vital social hubs that encourage local interaction, build relationships, and help reduce loneliness for participants.'
The statement further argues that the venue 'reuses commercial floorspace, causes no unacceptable amenity impacts and enhances vitality and viability in our ever declining high streets.' Proposed plans include a 62-capacity open plan bingo hall on the ground floor, along with a lounge area 'designated for social interaction where participants can wait for specific bingo games and related spot competitions'. No stage for a traditional bingo caller is included, and the application clarifies that no alcohol would be served or permitted on the premises.
Public Objections and Decision Timeline
The application is currently under consideration by Southwark Council's planning team. So far, three public objections have been submitted by locals, all raising concerns about the gambling aspect of the venue. One objection alleges that the venue is 'a high-density electronic slot machine arcade (Adult Gaming Centre) in disguise'.
Another objection states: 'This Wetherspoons is one of Peckham's most inclusive, accessible, and affordable community hubs. It welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities - including those who don't gamble. It fills a massive gap for affordable, all-inclusive social space. Converting it to a gambling-focused venue removes a safe, welcoming space for everyone in our community [...] Local residents have repeatedly said we want LESS gambling, not more.'
A decision on the change of use application is expected by October 14.
