ISN’T it ironic that local shops were put out of business by supermarkets, especially now the trend is for small outlets. And the perfect size appears to be the local pub.

Tesco is eyeing up two at the moment and it’s causing a bit of a stir. The Punch Bowl is one, but Martin Crosbie, from the Groves Residents’ Association, tells us the area is already well served with supermarkets.

Now City of York Council has given the pub a two-week reprieve and is considering an Article 4 Direction on the site, which would stop it being converted without planning permission.

We welcome the council’s intervention. Let’s just hope it gives time for a mutually acceptable solution to be found.