Landmark decision could open floodgates for rural pub conversions

More pubs in rural Wales could be converted into private houses after a licensee in Llantilio Crossenny, Monmouthshire, won a landmark planning appeal.

Despite the best efforts of villagers, the owner of the Hostry in the village has been granted permission to convert the pub, said to be the oldest in the county, into a private residence.

Monmouthshire County Council had originally refused planning permission because of objections from the local community but it was granted on appeal by a Welsh Assembly inspector.

Campaigners now fear that many more rural pubs will be bought up and converted into private homes - which are often worth more.

James Daley, regional director for the South and Mid-Wales Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), said: "Up to six rural pubs are closing every month and this decision by the planning inspectorate has given the green light to publicans who think their pub is worth more as a private residence than as part of the community."

But Gareth John, executive officer of Licensed Victuallers (Wales), said he was pleased the planning permission had been granted.

"The pub was not viable. The licensee had been there for more than 10 years and done everything he could and he was still losing money," he said.

"It's okay for CAMRA to say we should keep pubs open but it's viability that's important.

"We have to look at each pub individually. The licensees who want to stick at it and need help should be given 100 per cent rate relief and grants from organisations such as the Welsh Tourist Board to make the pubs viable."

Meanwhile, David Davies, Welsh Assembly member for Monmouthshire, has set up an all-party real ale group in the Assembly to help promote the interests of pubs and brewers in the region.

Along with his fellow-member Brian Hancock, Mr Davies believes action is needed to stop rural pubs in Wales dying out.

The Welsh Assembly already stocks its own branded beer but the pair want Welsh ale marketed as an essential part of the "Welsh experience".

"We have Welsh lamb, Welsh beef, Welsh cheeses and now even a Welsh wine, which is a growing industry," said Mr Hancock.

"But Welsh beer has been a traditional interest for very many years."

The pair hope the new group, which will have a strong alliance with CAMRA, will save rural pubs and help the troubled Welsh brewing industry.