Sutton Council is addressing fire safety and living condition concerns at the former HG Wells pub site on 101 Cheam Common Road, following concerns raised by residents regarding public nuisance, potential health and safety hazards, unauthorised activities, and the impact on the local community .

A joint inspection on 3 June 2025 revealed “significant and serious concerns,” prompting the council to serve notices to the property owner. The Minutes 06052025 North Cheam Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee show that the Council had made contact with the landowner and continued to engage with them.

The North Cheam, Stonecot and Worcester Park Local Committee discussed the site at their meeting on 15 July 2025.

The inspection, which included officers from planning, building control, and environmental health, found fire safety deficiencies, a lack of safety certifications, poor living conditions, and external issues such as accumulated soft furnishings. The police were scheduled to attend, but were unable to at short notice.

As a result, the property owner was served with a Preliminary Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004 and a warning of a Community Protection Notice on 27 June 2025. While the specific timeline for compliance is not provided, the Preliminary Improvement Notice legally obligates the owner to address all identified hazards, including:

  • Installing a full fire alarm system, fire doors, and correct emergency lighting/signage.
  • Installing a fixed, controllable central heating system.
  • Repairing windows and improving bathroom conditions.
  • Providing valid Gas, Electrical, and Energy Performance certificates.

The Community Protection Notice warns against external refuse, requiring the removal of all soft furnishings and items that could attract vermin.

The council served the property owner with a Preliminary Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004, requiring them to address fire safety deficiencies, provide safety certifications, and improve living conditions to ensure the safety and well-being of the tenants currently residing in the building.

The first floor of the pub is being used as residential accommodation by three tenants, consistent with its historical use. The ground floor and basement are secured and unoccupied.

The council has also met with the planning agent and architect for a potential residential housing development on the site. The council stressed the importance of the site being brought into a permanent productive use and that any scheme should be in keeping with the neighbouring housing. The council understands that a planning application will be submitted for a comprehensive redevelopment scheme in late summer/early autumn.

The Council will continue to monitor the situation and ensure the actions are implemented as required by the Notices. The frequency of inspections is not specified.

The Public Reports Pack for the meeting included an Update on the former HG Wells pub.