TWELVE objections have been made against proposals to convert a dale pub into a home.
Among those opposing a planning application to change the use of Whorlton’s Bridge Inn is the Darlington branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and the village’s parish council. Ten residents also oppose the application by owner Ivan Carter-Becker.
In a heritage statement to county planners, Mr Carter-Becker said the pub was no longer viable as a business and despite a number of viewings no new tenants had taken up the lease since its closure more than a year ago.
However, those who oppose the plans say the imminent re-opening of Whorlton Bridge could make the pub viable again.
In a letter to county planners, clerk to Whorlton and Westwick Parish Council Alan Dixon said: “The closure of Whorlton suspension bridge in August 2019 has been detrimental to both the village and the pub.
“The parish council have been informed that it will be reopening early next year and this will lead to increased through traffic from motorists, cyclists and walkers.
“Once this happens the Bridge Inn will once again be a focal point of the village allowing tourists to stop for refreshments.”
He added that the Grade II listed building is listed as an “asset of community value” meaning that the community should be given six months to prepare a bid to buy the pub before it can be sold.
Mr Dixon said: “The owners of the Bridge Inn have not approached the parish council asking whether it would be interested in buying the pub and have also not shown that the facility is not viable. Councillors feel that the owners of the Bridge Inn have not conformed to the Community Right to Bid procedure.”
A CAMRA spokesperson also highlighted the reopening of the bridge as having the potential to return the pub to viability.
The spokesperson added: “Regarding viability it is accepted that there are challenges with running pubs in the current climate.
“However, it must be noted that there are examples of surviving, and thriving public houses in the wider rural area.
“Numerous public houses remain open and popular businesses throughout Teesdale,” he added.
