More than 800 people have signed a petition to secure the future of the Leicester Arms, Luton (pictured) following its closure by owner Mitchells and Butler last month.

Before the closure, local residents had already begun organising support for the pub and its future within the community. Alongside the petition, an Asset of Community Value (ACV) application to Luton Borough Council was supported by 104 people.

The campaign has also attracted support from Luton North MP Sarah Owen and local councillors.

In a letter supporting the application, Owen highlighted the pub’s importance to residents across the surrounding neighbourhoods.

“The Leicester Arms is a much-loved community hub, bringing together residents from across the nearby neighbourhoods. This is a vital space for its patrons, offering a sense of community. At a time when we are losing pubs and community spaces, this part of Luton North cannot lose another.”

The MP added residents had consistently described the pub as a focal point of community life and expressed her view that the Leicester Arms merits recognition as an Asset of Community Value.

Local councillor Basit Mahmood has also backed the campaign: “I know a number of Challney residents and residents from other wards have expressed concern about the future of the Leicester Arms pub, which is a special place for many of our residents. I will do all I can to support the campaign to ensure it continues as a pub.

An application to list the building as an Asset of Community Value has already been made. Should this be successful, I will then do all I can to support the campaign to raise the funds and get the support needed to ensure it can open its doors once again.”

Friends of the Leicester Arms secretary Jim Carroll said: “The Leicester Arms is much more than a building. For many residents it has been a place where people have met friends and neighbours, celebrated important occasions and built the sense of community that makes an area feel like home.

“Community pubs are often among the few places where people of different ages and backgrounds come together on a regular basis. They provide opportunities for social interaction, help reduce isolation and strengthen community ties. Many residents have told us that the Leicester Arms has been part of their lives for decades. We believe the pub can once again become a thriving community hub.

“We are grateful for the continued support of Sarah Owen MP and her interest in the future of the Leicester Arms. We would welcome the opportunity to engage positively with any current or future owners about the strong community support for retaining it as a valued neighbourhood pub.

“We hope Luton Borough Council will carefully consider the evidence, together with the representations received from residents and elected representatives, when determining the Asset of Community Value application.”

The group hopes recognition of the pub’s contribution to local life will support future consideration of options for bringing the building back into active community use.