Carlton Tavern in Maida Vale, west London, was demolished by developer CLTX which had previously been told to rebuild it.

They appealed against the decision, but Westminster City Council won the battle and now the company has been told once again that it must rebuild the pub.

The planning inspectorate told CLTX it must rebuild the Grade II listed pub as close to the original as possible.

They have two years to rebuild it after the public inquiry heard what it meant to local residents.

Councillor Robert Davis told The Publican’s Morning Advertiser: “Our planning officers and residents made a strong case in May at the public inquiry.I am pleased that we have won the battle and I look forward to seeing the Carlton Tavern turned back into a thriving community pub.

“This sends a clear message to developers across the country that they cannot ride roughshod over the views of local communities.”

Members of campaigning group Friends of the Carlton Tavern were yesterday toasting the success of their battle. A spokesman said: “Folks, we did it.

“As things stand, the law says we should get our pub back by September 2018. Hopefully CLTX will now do the decent thing and work with council and community to put things right. But, failing that, Westminster CC has made it clear that any necessary enforcement will be used. The local community fully supports this stance.

“So the fight continues. No doubt there will be meetings soon to decide what happens next. But for now, let’s celebrate. Mine’s a double, thanks.”