A major brewery chain has offered to step in and save a threatened village pub, it has been revealed.
G & K Groundworks want to convert the White Hart pub in Harwich Road, Wix, into a private house.
But a planning meeting last night heard Greene King had offered to buy the pub.
John Mathews told Tendring Council's development control committee he represented more than 60 residents who were opposed to the plan.
He added: "We believe the White Hart is viable as a quality pub and restaurant. G & K said to me Greene King had approached them with a view to buying the property and a local publican is known to have made a similar offer."
He said another pub in Wix catered for a completely different market.
Mr Mathews said a survey on the building did not talk about a cock-fighting pit - thought to be one of only two originals left in the country - and omitted several other historic features.
Speaking for the applicant, John McPherson said the pub was empty and neglected, and successive landlords had failed to make it work.
The plan to change the use of the pub and to remove extensions and outbuildings had been recommended for approval, but councillors agreed to a site visit before making a final decision.
Published Wednesday December 17, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article