I have received a response from Greene King regarding the planning application for a Morrisons Store at the Highlands Inn car park. This seems to confirm a commitment to the pub but that they are still considering options on the planning application.

Dear Mr Judge,

Your email of 24 June 2015 has been passed to me for attention.

We have only just taken over the Spirit estate but from conversations can confirm that the Highlands Inn is a successful business that we would not wish to convert into a convenience store.

However the planning application for the convenience store in the car park was seen as an opportunity to both improve the pub environment and bring additional customers to its doorstep. We are disappointed that it has been refused at appeal and are considering our options.

I hope this gives you the comfort you were seeking.

Thanks 

Ken Millbanks

Group Property Director

Greene King Plc.