Four homes approved on former Southsea pub and beer garden

The former Carter and Co pub and restaurant will be converted into four homes.

Portsmouth City Council’s planning committee approved plans for the former pub at 30-34 Great Southsea Street which would see the Grade II listed pub, and adjoining former fishmongers, split into two large dwellings.

Two additional three-storey houses would be built on the beer garden, completing a gap in the terrace at the site which was most recently used as a pub and bed and breakfast.

Darryl Howells, planning agent, told the committee that the loss of the pub “would not harm the community to any great extent as the area is well served for alternatives.

“My client purchased the property in August 2025 as a going concern in the hope to try and make it work however, due to failing custom and then a noise abatement notice served against the property the operation of the premise was significantly curtailed and ultimately now the premises has closed.

“The proposed change of use to housing will ensure these buildings are reused, do not become long-term vacancies and will still positively contribute to the streetscene.”

Councillor George Madgwick agreed with the proposal but raised concerns over the middle property which, in his view, is “primes” to be converted into a house in multiple occupation.

He added it is “sad to see another pub and restaurant close” as the asset will not return to the community.

Cllr Lee Hunt said: “It is unfortunate to see places that have been used by members of the public for so long go another way.”

He added that hospitality industries, especially pubs, are “all shrinking” but concluded that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” and supported the plans.

In March this year, the owners of Carter and Co announced the closure of the pub, which opened in May 2021.

The building was originally constructed as the India Arms pub in 1902 and later became “The Tiffin Room”, then “The Italian Bar and Grill” before becoming Carter and Co.