A CONTROVERSIAL bid to turn The Bell Inn pub in Hook Norton into a home should be rejected, a council report says.

A Cherwell District Council planning officer says the loss of the High Street pub “would result in the loss of a village service”.

It says developer Peter Cape has “not conclusively demonstrated” that the pub is no longer viable.

It has been marketed by owner Punch Taverns since August 2006 and the application says it is trading at a “nominal rent with full discounts” to keep it afloat.

Some four letters opposed the plan along with a 111-signature petition. One letter supported the application.

Hook Norton Parish Council did not oppose the plan but the North Oxfordshire Branch of the Campaign for Real Ale said claims about its viability are “unsupported conclusions”.

The council’s conservation officer said that while the plan would “enhance the interior and exterior of the building” it would also lead to the loss of a village amenity.

This would change the character of the village’s conservation area, which demands tighter rules on planning applications.

The council’s planning committee will be asked to make a decision on the plan next Thursday at 4pm at Bodicote House, Bodicote.

The public are welcome to attend.