Work to restore derelict Constitution pub in Camden begins

Scaffolding erected outside the former The Constitution pub in St Pancras Way, Camden Town, which has been closed since 2020.

The pub, founded in 1958, shut that February, just before the hospitality industry was forced to close during the Covid-19 lockdown.

Pub chain Young’s first submitted an application to revitalise the watering hole to Camden Council in 2021.

The Constitution (Image: @pubssaving / Twitter)

In a design and access statement, architect Sampson Associates said: “The public house is currently closed as it is inadequate for trading and has been subject to squatters and vandalism.”

Pictures in the document show graffiti inside the empty venue and parts of wall ripped apart.

Sampson Associates said that the new pub would “increase the trading potential” and “ensure the future of an important historic and community asset”.

Plans include demolishing an existing rear single storey extension and replace it with a new structure to provide customer toilets and an accessible WC.

Changes would also be made to the existing pub building, including a first floor licensed drinking area, accessed by new stairs.

A new commercial kitchen would be built on the second floor, with the document noting the current kitchen facilities are small and “insufficient” for the standards of the Young’s chain.

The Constitution (Image: @pubssaving / Twitter)

An enclosed bin store would also be built behind timber fence and gates.

The plans were approved, with a decision notice on September 2022 stating the development must begin no later than three years of being granted permission.

Currently an opening date has not been confirmed by the new pub owners.

On The Constitution’s website, Young & Co’s Pubs said: “Young & Co’s Pubs are proud to welcome The Constitution to the Young’s family. We’re currently closed and are excited to be reopening our doors soon.”