A VILLAGE’S closed pub looks unlikely to re-open after plans were submitted to turn the venue into a home.

The New Inn at Bartestree has been closed for many weeks with applicant Billy Reynolds, under the company name PWC (Bartestree) LLP, now hoping to convert the pub, off the A438 Hereford to Ledbury road, into a house with at least four bedrooms.

Should the move go ahead, it would mean the nearest pub for Bartestree residents would be the Crown and Anchor in neighbouring Lugwardine.

But the plan has been criticised by Herefordshire CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ales) which says it would be happy to support any bid by villagers to oppose the plans.

“It is disappointing to see this application go in for this landmark pub, the only pub in a growing village,” said Mark Haslam from the group.

“We will be asking the planners to make sure that effort has been made to sell the property to a pub operator.

“The relevant planning policies not unreasonably require change of owner before use.

“Otherwise, we are happy to support the local community in any effort they might make to contest this proposal.

“It is our view, that in the right hands, the New Inn could be a successful village pub once more.”

The Hereford Times has been unable to make contact with Mr Reynolds for comment.