'This is a vital space' More than 800 people back campaign to save much-loved Luton pub

The pub, which was closed by owner Mitchells & Butlers on October 17, is now vacant as campaigners push to secure its future.

The Friends of the Leicester Arms group has submitted an application to Luton Borough Council to have the pub designated an Asset of Community Value (ACV).

More than 800 people have signed a petition supporting the campaign, while 104 representations have also been submitted to the council in support of the application.

The campaign has attracted backing from Luton North MP Sarah Owen and councillors, including Basit Mahmood.

If successful, an Asset of Community Value listing could give the community an opportunity to bid for the pub if it is put up for sale in the future.

In a letter supporting the application, Ms Owen described the Leicester Arms as a "much-loved community hub".

She said: "This is a vital space for its patrons, offering a sense of community.

"At a time when we are losing pubs and community spaces, this part of Luton North cannot lose another."

Councillor Basit Mahmood has also pledged his support. He said: "I know a number of Challney residents and residents from other wards have expressed concern about the future of the Leicester Arms pub, which is a special place for many of our residents.

"I will do all I can to support the campaign to ensure it continues as a pub."

Jim Carroll, secretary of the Friends of the Leicester Arms, said: "Community pubs are often among the few places where people of different ages and backgrounds come together on a regular basis.

"They provide opportunities for social interaction, help reduce isolation and strengthen community ties.”

He added: "Many residents have told us that the Leicester Arms has been part of their lives for decades. We believe the pub can once again become a thriving community hub."

A Luton Borough Council spokesperson said: “The Leicester Arms is a much loved pub, and we recognise the strength of feeling among residents who are campaigning to secure its future.

“It is encouraging to see people coming together and taking positive action to try and protect an asset they value.”

They added: “The council has received a nomination to designate the Leicester Arms as an Asset of Community Value.

“All nominations are assessed against the specific legal criteria set out in the Localism Act 2011, and the decision will be based on whether those criteria are met.

The spokesperson said: “The council must follow this process objectively, with a decision made within the statutory timescales.

“While we cannot pre-empt the outcome, we recognise and welcome the community's efforts to have their voices heard.”

The Friends of the Leicester Arms said it would welcome the opportunity to engage with any current or future owners about retaining the building as a neighbourhood pub.

The application is currently being considered by Luton Borough Council.