AN Indian gastropub located just 200 metres from Anne Hathaway’s cottage, a historic site linked to William Shakespeare, is under threat of demolition due to planning disputes.
The Cask N Tandoor pub, opened in March by hotelier Rakesh Singh, is part of the Burnside Hotel in the Warwickshire village of Shottery. However, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust claims the pub breaches a legal covenant limiting development on the land and has started legal action against Singh, according to reports.
Anne Hathaway’s cottage, a timber-framed house dating back to 1463, is a key attraction for visitors exploring Shakespeare’s legacy. The trust argues that the gastropub, known for its tandoori dishes and lively atmosphere, disrupts the rural character of the conservation area and negatively impacts the local community.
Stratford-on-Avon district council rejected Singh’s retrospective application for planning permission on 16 December, citing concerns over biodiversity, overdevelopment, and the conservation area’s character. Despite this setback, Singh has indicated plans to appeal the decision or submit a revised application.
Local residents have voiced strong objections, citing issues such as noise, light pollution, and environmental damage. One neighbour complained about late-night disturbances from customers and bright spotlights affecting her property during winter. Another remarked that the pub’s location was inappropriate, particularly given the influx of tourists visiting Anne Hathaway’s cottage.
Villagers also expressed concerns about increased traffic and the pub’s effect on wildlife and a nearby brook. “This is not the right place for a loud sports bar and Indian restaurant,” one local resident commented.
The pub, featuring a 6-foot-wide sports screen, promotes itself as offering a vibrant atmosphere. However, critics say this clashes with the tranquil setting of the historic village.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust stressed that the development violates planning policies and existing covenants. A spokesperson stated, “The works have overdeveloped the site, disregarding the character of the area and the amenities of surrounding properties, including Anne Hathaway’s cottage.”
Stansgate Planning, representing Singh, said it is reviewing the council’s reasons for refusal and considering its next steps.
Moglai Bap and Mo Chara of Kneecap perform at Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm in Pilton, Somerset, Britain, June 28, 2025. REUTERS/Jaimi Joy
Police may probe anti-Israel comments at Glastonbury
BRITISH police said they were considering whether to launch an investigation after performers at Glastonbury Festival made anti-Israel comments during their shows.
"We are aware of the comments made by acts on the West Holts Stage at Glastonbury Festival this afternoon," Avon and Somerset Police, in western England, said on X late on Saturday (28).
Irish hip-hop group Kneecap and punk duo Bob Vylan made anti-Israeli chants in separate shows on the West Holts stage on Saturday. One of the members of Bob Vylan chanted "Death, death, to the IDF" in a reference to the Israel Defense Forces.
"Video evidence will be assessed by officers to determine whether any offences may have been committed that would require a criminal investigation," the police statement said.
The Israeli Embassy in Britain said it was "deeply disturbed by the inflammatory and hateful rhetoric expressed on stage at the Glastonbury Festival".
Prime minister Keir Starmer said earlier this month it was "not appropriate" for Kneecap to appear at Glastonbury.
The band's frontman Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh was charged with a terrorism offence last month for allegedly displaying a flag in support of Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah at a concert in November. He has denied the charge.
A British government minister said it was appalling that the anti-Israel chants had been made at Glastonbury, and that the festival's organisers and the BBC broadcaster - which is showing the event - had questions to answer.
Health secretary Wes Streeting said he was also appalled by violence committed by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank.
"I'd also say to the Israeli Embassy, get your own house in order in terms of the conduct of your own citizens and the settlers in the West Bank," Streeting told Sky News.
"I wish they'd take the violence of their own citizens towards Palestinians more seriously," he said.
(Reuters)