A building that JD Wetherspoon has been trying to convert into a pub is up for sale.  

The former King’s Ely boarding house, at 24 St Mary’s Street, is back on the market after the national pub chain’s plans for the site were refused.

Even though it has decided to take a step back from trying to open a pub in Ely for now, a spokesperson said they “would not rule out” other options in the future.  

He said: “I can confirm that Wetherspoon has put the property up for sale. This is a commercial decision by the company.  

“Wetherspoon is not looking at any other sites in Ely at present but would not rule out looking for another site in the town in the future.” 

Ely Standard: Brochure for 24, St Mary's Street, in Ely, which is up for sale.Brochure for 24, St Mary's Street, in Ely, which is up for sale. (Image: Savills / CBRE)

East Cambridgeshire District Council refused plans to convert the Grade II Listed property into a pub in March 2021.  

JD Wetherspoon said it was investing £2m into the scheme which would create up to 50 jobs. 

But planners stated the size of the proposed extension was “disproportionate to the to its host building” and the pub too close to residential areas. 

It was also felt facilities for delivery vehicles were inadequate and there was no provision in the plans for parking.  

Ely Standard: The building at 24, St Mary's Street, Ely comes with a car park area.The building at 24, St Mary's Street, Ely comes with a car park area. (Image: Rightmove)

More recently, it was decided that double yellow lines could not be painted along St Mary's Street outside the pub. 

The property is being marketed jointly by Savills and CBRE at a price disclosed on application.  

Located within the Ely Conservation Area, it is described as a three storey semi-detached building with a back garden area and car park with spaces for around 22 vehicles.  

Ely Standard: JD Wetherspoon plans for the site were refused by East Cambridgeshire District Council planners.JD Wetherspoon plans for the site were refused by East Cambridgeshire District Council planners. (Image: Rightmove)

The ground floor has five former communal living rooms, two former kitchens and bathroom facilities.  

Seven former dormitory rooms and a bathroom make up the second floor.  

The tenure will be freehold.