Plans Submitted to Convert Former Balby Pub into Flats Following Closure

An application has been submitted to Doncaster Council proposing the conversion of a South Yorkshire pub, which ceased operations after a fatal incident nearby involving a father-of-five, into residential apartments. The proposal seeks to transform the former Park Social Sports Bar and Lounge, located in Balby, into eight flats. The premises on Victoria Road closed its doors in December 2023. This followed the death of 53-year-old Jason Gaskin, who was discovered unconscious with head injuries on 29 October and subsequently died at the scene. According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the pub has remained unoccupied since the incident because its owner was unsuccessful in finding a tenant willing to reopen it as a public house. The planned redevelopment of the structure involves removing the existing rear escape and plant room to create an outdoor communal area, alongside the installation of new doors, windows, and external fencing. South Yorkshire Police issued an appeal for information in October, one year after Mr. Gaskin’s death. Four individuals were apprehended on suspicion of murder; however, two of them were later released without any charges. The remaining two were released under investigation, pending further inquiries.