A POPULAR theatre's future has been secured after a developer's appeal over the refusal of flats on neighbouring land was turned down.

Following a week-long public inquiry, the planning inspector has rejected the appeal by A.C. Lester over a decision to refuse permission for eight residential units on the land behind Lloyds Bank and next to The Corn Exchange in Wallingford.

The venue was recognised by the inspector for its social and economic benefits to the community.

This decision is the end of a long-running saga over the plans to build the homes.

Concerns had been raised that potential new residents would complain about the noise and consequently force the venue to shut down.

Now the appeal decision has confirmed that the site has several constraints and any future development will have to consider the listed buildings and the proximity to the noise-producing Corn Exchange.

But the legal battle cost the venue £83,000 in professional fees and it could not have come at a worse time as it has been forced to remain closed for most of 2020.

The money was taken from the theatre’s reserves, which was set to be used to improve the stage. Now those reserves have disappeared, the venue will be looking to do more fundraising.

Councillor Sue Roberts is ‘over the moon’ that the plans have been refused.

She said: “The Corn Exchange is the heart of Wallingford.”

“It secures the future of what is a great community asset at a time when lots of places are losing their theatres.”

Ms Roberts fears that there is a huge amount of over development in South Oxfordshire.

Referring to the local plan she said: “31,000 houses will be built all over our countryside and destroying future possibilities to responding to climate change and still people are squeezing houses out of tiny plots.”

John Evans from The Corn Exchange said: “We sincerely hope that any future proposal will only be put forward following detailed discussions so that that our interests are fully protected.

"If we were ever in any doubt, this situation has shown us how much The Corn Exchange is valued by everyone who uses it.

"We would especially like to thank our members, volunteers and supporters for their active support throughout this process.

"The emails and letters objecting to the development have been vital and heart-warming. We can’t wait to welcome you all back to our wonderful theatre.”

Tom Clarke from Theatres' Trust’s said: “Having visited The Corn Exchange and seen what an important role it plays within the community, I am delighted the inspector agreed with us and recognised the harm this development would have caused.

"This case also demonstrates that noise conflicts aren’t restricted to large city centres, incompatible development could threaten any venue in the country.”