A PREMISES licence application for a former pumping station in Winchester has been withdrawn following backlash from residents.

Alex Donnan and Laura Turner applied for a premises licence for The Pump House, in Garnier Road, St Cross, to transform it into “an independent upmarket/retail café/retail and bar concept that will be appealing to couples, tourists, families and commuters”.

The pair are the co-founders of the General Store Winchester, in The Square.

A meeting of Winchester City Council’s licensing sub-committee was due to be held this morning (Monday) but the meeting was cancelled.

The Chronicle approached the council for an explanation on why the meeting was cancelled and have been told that "the applicant withdrew their application for a premises licence".

The council added that "no reason for the withdrawal was given".

The application received 38 objections, with neighbours concerned about public safety, noise and increase in traffic.

Mr Donnan was contacted for a comment following the announcement.