A bikers' pub often involved in controversy could be set to close early next year after the landlords submitted planning applications for a change to residential use.

George and Carole Scott, who took over the White Bear in Stanford Rivers, near Ongar, in January 1995, have applied to Epping Forest District Council for permission to convert the listed pub and outbuildings into four dwellings, including a single-storey cottage.

Asked if planning permission would definitely mean the closure of the 17th Century pub - a listed building - Mr Scott made it clear that he was looking to keep his options open.

He said: "Closing the pub is one of a number of alternatives open to us. At the moment we are talking to one or two people who would like to buy The White Bear and run it as a pub.

"Converting it is just another option. We would have more chance of selling the pub with the planning consent."

Mr Scott pointed out that, once granted, planning permission normally carries a lifespan of five years. He claimed that even if permission were granted, this meant the option to convert the pub would not necessarily be taken up.

Formerly an accountant by profession, Mr Scott, 62, confirmed that he and his wife would be retiring at the end of March next year. The pub's licence is due to be renewed on April 4.

The White Bear, a traditional haunt of motorcycle enthusiasts from across Esse and East London, , has been dogged by controversy over the past three years.

On Wednesday evenings and Sundays during the summer months, the pub has at times seen hundreds of bikers converge in the car park and on the embankment opposite.

Reports of a fringe group of riders pulling stunts and carrying out time trials along the London Road to Stapleford Abbotts led to a crackdown by police in the summer of 1998. Stanford Rivers residents had previously complained of noise and pollution from the White Bear embankment during the summer months.

Referring to new policing proposals that could see police given sweeping powers to close down "troublesome" pubs and clubs at will, Mr Scott commented: "I have no doubt that if that kind of nuisance did go on in future, the police would not hesitate to shut the pub down."

He said he had continued to welcome bikers at the White Bear and added: "I'vee got nothing against them, apart from the few idiots who spoil it for the rest."

John Puttock, a vintage motorcycle enthusiast and member of the AJS and Matchless Owners' Club which meets at the White Bear, said the club is planning to relocate from February.

He said: "It really is a totally unfair situation. Most of the bikers that have caused the trouble don't even go into the pub."

Bikers outside the White Bear pub in Stanford Rivers

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