A PLANNING application for a new pub in a Hampshire town has been objected despite residents claiming it would be a “fantastic addition to the community”.

Selling a range of cask ales, craft beers, fine wines, gin and soft drinks, the Netley Tap Craft Ale Bar plans to open a “micro-pub” in Victoria Road.

Its intended premises, which are formerly a Co-Op convenience store have now been empty and boarded up since last September.

According to the pub’s planning application, the site has been on the rental market for the last six months however there has been no interest to date.

Located within a terrace of retail units the pub would occupy the ground-floor of a two-story building, with the first-floor comprising a residential flat.

The ale company claims that since Co-Op withdrawing from the shopping parade footfall to existing businesses has fallen dramatically.

Hound Parish Council objected the application due to a lack of parking, the negative social impact on local residents and deliveries causing traffic problems.

A company spokesperson said: “There is only one pub in Netley and people often talk of a lost sense of community. We need places in the community to meet, socialise, and make friends.

“We have lost five pubs already so would like to open a micro-pub on the site of the old Co-op. It’s a boarded-up eyesore, so we want to turn it into something that adds to the village and the community.

One local resident said: “I think the pub would be fantastic for the area and would create a fantastic social hub.

“It would makes a great change from the usual pubs, and craft ale bars always have a great clientele with zero trouble. I am looking forward to it.”

The ultimate decision is yet to be made by Eastleigh Borough Council.