Fire-damaged village pub could become homes

A fire-damaged village pub could be turned into homes after standing empty for more than a decade.

Hillfern Development Ltd has sought to convert the former Mexborough Arms pub in Methley, Leeds, into two houses, saying the development would be "sustainable and sympathetic".

Leeds City Council has been asked to grant planning permission with officers stating the scheme would "secure a viable long-term use and prevent further deterioration".

The council said a full planning application was out for consultation until 12 August.

According to documents submitted, the building is located at "an underutilised brownfield site" on Watergate and has been unused since a "significant" fire in 2015.

The site comprises the former public house building, associated outbuildings, former car parking areas and surrounding land, according to the Local Democracy Service.

The proposed conversion would bring the property "back into beneficial use" and turn it into "high-quality" family homes, the report said.

"The conversion will retain the building's established appearance and historic presence within the village," it said.

"The proposal will enhance the visual quality of the site through refurbishment and repair."

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