Russell Brand's controversial fresh plans to convert an Oxfordshire country pub into a recording studio have been withdrawn following a peaceful protest by villagers.
The 49-year-old purchased an 800-year-old pub The Crown in the village of Pishill in 2020 which is just a mile away from Stonor but locals have criticised him as thinking he is "above the law".
He had previously tried to gain permission to convert the historic watering hole into a recording studio and offices but this was met with objections and the proposal was dismissed.
Now his new plans outline the spot could be used as a pub as well as a media studio and offices with a function room have been withdrawn.
Last week about 20 locals gathered in a field in the hamlet of Maidensgrove to protest against the scheme.
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William Stonor, 8th Lord Camoys, of Stonor Park, said: “This is a very carefully constructed planning application. Motives in the end are irrelevant in planning.
"What matters is what gets done. But given the absence of any reference to the continued function of the pub in any of the application material it would not be unreasonable to infer that the applicant has no intention of operating the pub.
"This is reinforced by the previous application which sought change of use so the pub would no longer function, which was rightly refused by the council for a number of reasons, but including being directly contrary to policy CF1.”
“This latest application once again focuses on the change of use of parts of the Grade II listed Crown site, which should they be granted will simply reduce the likelihood of the Crown being reintroduced as a pub or community hub.”
Another local Simon Stracey said: “This saga has gone on far too long and the present occupant seems to think he is above the law and completely ignores all planning legislation. Is there one rule for people with influence and another for the rest of us?
“The lives of the neighbours are being spoilt due to the late-night to early morning recordings etc.
“There is a need for a traditional pub in this area especially as there are no others to go to in the Stonor Valley, we are quite sure it could be run successfully in the right ownership, as it was in the past with greater competition.”
Henley and Thame MP Freddie Van Mierlo said: "As a district councillor representing Watlington ward since 2023, I am pleased that this application has been withdrawn. Residents have over many years shared their concerns at the closure of the pub and proposed use as a recording studio. I am pleased that officers have noted the need to keep this community building as a viable local pub and to prevent noise harm to neighbours.
"Liberal Democrats in parliament, including myself, have written to the chancellor ahead of the budget to call for better support for pubs in the budget. They perform an important community role as gathering places for families, friends and neighbours and should be afforded greater protection from development and the whims of celebrities that are unserious about running a local pub."
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About the author
Toby is a senior reporter who has a particular interest in covering planning and local government.
He joined in September 2024 having been a reporter at the Hampshire Chronicle for three years.
Toby studied at the University of Brighton and can be found on X through the handle @JournoToby
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