A VILLAGE pub looks set to become a house despite the building being considered a “cherished local facility” by some residents.

A change of use planning application was submitted to South Somerset District Council earlier this year.

It is recommended for approval by councillors at an Area West Committee meeting tomorrow night (Wednesday, October 19).

The meeting agenda says: “The application site relates to the Swan Inn, a Grade-II listed public house located on the western side of Lower Street, within the village of Merriott and its conservation area.

“The Swan Inn has been closed since 2016. The public house lies between two other dwellings and occupies a narrow burgage plot extending to the rear which includes a beer garden and a skittle alley with annexed living accommodation above.

“Living accommodation is provided at the first floor of the main building itself. There is no formal dedicated parking serving the public house; a small concrete area lies to the front of the building, slightly set back from Lower Street and the neighbouring dwellings.”

The planning application received 14 letters of objection and 10 letters of support.

Objections centred on the pub previously being “successful” and its closure being a “great loss to the community”.

Others said the building could be used as a social hub for a “growing village” if it returns to its use as a pub.

Some objectors believe it was put on sale for an “unrealistic” price in 2016, and it could be sold to new investors for a smaller fee, allowing it to re-open.

Messages of support for the application said another pub, The Kings Head, is a “thriving” business located around half a mile away that residents suggest can serve the village.

Others said the building’s size made it “impractical” as a pub, while others said there was “horrendous” noise from it when it was still in business.

The cost-of-living crisis and challenges facing pub owners was also cited, while it was claimed the pandemic has led to people “going out less/drinking at home”.

The meeting agenda concludes: “Despite some possibility of the business proving more successful under new management and claims that it should have been re-marketed at a lower price, the loss of the existing pub and accommodation is considered acceptable on balance as it should not significantly affect the village’s vitality and viability, or community vibrancy.

“The scheme would not harm the intrinsic significance of the listed buildings or the character and appearance of the conservation area, and there are no undue concerns regarding residential amenity, highway safety, ecology or designated sites.

“Overall, therefore, the application is judged to accord with the principal determining criteria of the relevant development plan policies and approval is recommended, subject to conditions.”

The Area West Committee meeting will be held at The Guildhall in Chard on Wednesday, October 19 from 5.30pm. Consideration of planning applications will begin no earlier than 6.30pm.