The site near Southgate Station has been boarded up for years but could now become a block of flats with commercial space

The plans for the former Maze Inn site (credit Fio's) — The plans for the former Maze Inn site (credit Fio’s)

Long-awaited plans have been revealed for the derelict site of a former pub in Southgate.

The boarded-up site of the former Maze Inn at 7 Chase Side, near Southgate Station, could be turned into a block of eleven flats with commercial space if the plans go ahead.

Although no planning application has yet been submitted, owners Fio’s Property Portfolio Ltd have been seeking local people’s views on its proposals over the past few weeks.

Fio’s purchased the Maze Inn site in 2016 for £3m, after it had closed. The pub also previously traded under the name The Rising Sun.

In 2019, it was illegally demolished without permission and, although Enfield Council took enforcement action against the owners, the local authority stopped short of ordering that the pub be rebuilt, stating instead that any replacement building “demonstrate a quality approach to the design”.

In promotional materials for the new plans, Fio’s state: “This small redevelopment will provide modern residential living spaces with eleven self-contained apartments from one to three bedroom and commercial opportunities at ground floor and partially first floor.”

They add that the scheme will feature “spacious, contemporary apartments designed for comfort and style” as well as “lush green roof tops and serene outdoor areas perfect for relaxation and recreation” and “sustainable practices integrated into every aspect of the development”.

Because the site lies within a conservation area the development must pass a “high bar” to win permission, according to Southgate District Civic Voice (SDCV).

In a statement the group said: “SDCV is pleased the owners of the demolished Maze Inn are developing new plans for this site. Southgate has seen the site boarded up and neglected for many years, a real eyesore in our town centre, to the frustration of everyone.

“The site is in the Southgate Circus Conservation Area, very close to the iconic Grade 2* listed Southgate Station. Therefore, there is a responsibility and an opportunity to replace the boarded-up wasteland with new architecturally interesting buildings to enhance our town centre.

“There are several interesting features to the proposal, including the use of open space on the roof, but overall SDCV is disappointed that this development will not produce a positive addition to Chase Side.

“We are particularly concerned that the new building will come further forward than the demolished pub, right up to the edge of the site. This will make the street feel crowded and allows no opportunity for open space or softening planting, something often called for by residents.

“The proposed building will dominate Chase Side as well as Southgate Circus, in particular it will impact views of the station, as it looms over Station Parade.

“This redevelopment is an amazing opportunity for transitional change to Southgate. SDCV would like to work with the Maze Inn site team to create something truly worthy and groundbreaking for Southgate.”

Anyone wishing to submit views on the plans can get in touch with Fio’s:
Call 07710 536 406
Visit [email protected]

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