Campaigners have welcomed a decision to refuse plans to convert a village pub into housing as they continue their bid to retain it.
The owner of the Bridge Inn, Whorlton, wanted to turn it into a house, but the proposal was refused by Durham County Council.
Members of the Whorlton Community Benefit Society rallied together earlier this year to save the pub, describing the potential loss as an “immense blow”.
More than £200,000 has been raised so far as part of a bid to retain the building for community use.
Elisa Hargreaves, who helped steer the campaign, said: “This is fantastic, positive news, which is a great next step for us. It’s great to have the support of the local authorities to prevent the pub from turning into a property.”
Durham County Council said the owner had failed to show that the pub is no longer viable, which was disputed by the applicant, Ivan Carter-Becker.
The Grade II listed building, which dates back to the early 1800s, is on the market for £350,000. Campaigners hope to turn it into an asset of community value, but must raise thousands more pounds.
“We still have a long road ahead of us, and there is still lots of work to do,” Ms Hargreaves said. That includes receiving more financial support and the backing of residents in order for the campaign’s plan to progress.
“We are hoping this latest news will spur more people to join us,” she added.
Campaigners have been supported in their opposition to the planning application by parish councillors and the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
Whorlton residents claimed the closure of the village’s suspension bridge in August 2019, which is currently undergoing renovation works, has reduced the number of visitors to the area. Villagers and visitors have been forced to take a significant detour on local roads to access Whorlton since work started.
The ongoing disruption has emphasised the pub’s importance in the area, campaigners said.
Ms Hargreaves added: “I don’t think anybody can overestimate how important it is. It’s about having a place for people to gather and socialise.
“We have a lot of new residents in the villages, so it’s a great place for them to meet people.
“We are lucky we have the church and village hall – they are fantastic facilities – but unless there is an event on, they are closed and empty.
“Keeping the pub open would mean there is somewhere to go regularly and meet people. It also supports local tourism. It’s massively important for all aspects of Whorlton.”
Representatives speaking on behalf of Mr Carter-Becker said: “Due to the significant economic changes and challenges faced since 2019, the Bridge Inn is no longer viable as a business and is likely to stay that way for the foreseeable future.”
