PLANS for a new pub in Hampshire village have been refused despite residents claimed it would be a “fantastic addition to the community”.

The Netley Tap Craft Ale Bar had planned to open a “micro-pub” in Victoria Road selling a range of cask ales, craft beers, fine wines, gin and soft drinks,

Its intended premises were formerly a Co-Op convenience store have now been empty for a year.

However, the plans for a new pub have now been rejected by Eastleigh Borough Council.

Planning Permission was refused because the watering hole would result in an "unacceptable level of noise and disturbance" to nearby neighbours.

According to the planning officer's report, a total of 61 representations were received.

The "vast majority" in support of pub claimed it would be an asset to the village and help support the local centre and neighbouring businesses.

Of those commenting, four representations objected, mentioning there is no need for more pubs in Netley, a lack of parking spaces, noise and disturbance, the position of smoking area and the impact on neighbours.

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 have occupied 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 previously objected the application due to a lack of parking, the negative social impact on local residents and deliveries causing traffic problems.

As previously reported, 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 resident said: “I think the pub would be fantastic for the area and would create a fantastic social hub.

“It would make 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.”