A CONTROVERSIAL PLANNING application for a Brampton pub to be converted into two homes will go before councillors next week - as the applicants say that despite the pub being on the market for the last 15 years,  the owners 'have not had a single offer'.

Plans have been submitted for the change of use of the Belted Will Inn in Hallbankgate into two new homes after the owners say that due to the 'current financial crisis running the pub is becoming unsustainable'.

The owners say that they have been in the pub for 25 years and in that time 'a lot has changed', and that they have 'done everything they can to sell the business and to remain open'.

The pub has most recently been on the market for £100,000 with the owners saying that despite it being for sale over the last 15 years, there has not been a single offer.

However, objections have been raised by the local councillor, Campaign for Real Ale and the Farlam Parish Council - who all believe that the Belted Will Inn is too vital a community asset to lose.

Farlam Parish Council have said that "the Belted Will’s use as a public house must be protected at all costs, for the benefit of the village, the parish and the wider community".

In comments submitted on the application, Farlam Parish Council said: "The pub is a central focus of the parish. It has a very well-used bar, restaurant, and bed and breakfast rooms.

"Whilst understanding the challenges of owning and running the pub, we feel it is important to do everything possible to protect such an important asset for the parish and the wider community."

The council said that the pub is used by many people and groups within the community and the wider district, including several neighbouring villages and hamlets which have no public house.

The Campaign for Real Ale also raised objections to the change of use, with local councillor Roger Dobson making representation asking the committee to consider that the 'historic public house is an important community facility serving a large area south of Brampton on the main road to Alston'.

Despite objections, planning officers have recommended that the application is granted subject to the conditions outlined at the end of their report. A final decision will be made by councillors on November 27.