3.2.29 Local pubs can be an important focal point within the local community. The City Council therefore seeks to protect pubs from unnecessary loss and will seek evidence to from an applicant to demonstrate that all reasonable efforts have been made to retain the pub in viable use. In order to satisfy the requirements of this policy, applicants will normally be expected to submit evidence demonstrating the following:

1. A comprehensive sustained marketing campaign (agreed in advance by the Council) has been undertaken, offering the public house for sale as a going concern and using an agreed realistic valuation of the premises;
2. The marketing campaign has run for a period of at least six months before the planning application is submitted;
3. The public house has been offered for sale locally, and in the region, in appropriate publications and through specialised licensed trade agents;
4. Extensive engagement with the local community to demonstrate the acceptability of existing provision within a reasonable walking distance for the community, or alternative replacement provision.
5. Opportunities have been explored for the public house to be taken forward through a community ownership initiative.