An appeal to convert a closed pub near Bromyard into semi-detached houses has been dismissed by a planning inspector.
Herefordshire Council planners rejected the proposals to convert the Wheatsheaf Inn in Whitbourne into a four and a three-bedroom home last August.
The council said there was not enough evidence that the pub would not be a viable business and could not continue to meet community needs.
But applicant Peter Styles challenged the decision and a planning inspector considered the appeal.
“I recognise that the proposal would deliver positive benefits in the form of additional housing which would contribute towards the council’s five year housing supply,” Inspector S Shapland said in their decision notice.
“However, the provision of two additional dwellings would only provide a
limited contribution to housing supply.
“Minor economic benefits would be achieved through the construction of the dwellings, albeit this would be a temporary benefit.
“Furthermore, future occupiers could support the local community and facilities within local villages and settlements.
“I also recognise that the proposal would reuse an existing building which is currently in a dilapidated state.
“This is a positive benefit which adds weight in favour of the scheme.
“However, the proposal would result in the loss of a community facility, and the likelihood of future occupiers being dependent on the use of the private car for access to services.
“In addition, I have found that I cannot conclude that unacceptable harm would not be caused to highway safety or to protected species.
“Collectively, these are matters to which I afford significant weight in decision making terms.
“Overall, I conclude that the adverse impacts of the proposed development would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits when assessed against the policies in the Framework and the development plan when taken as a whole.
“Therefore, the proposal would not represent a sustainable form of development.”
Mark Haslam of Herefordshire CAMRA said he was pleased about the appeal decision.
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