A FORMER village pub which was beset by difficulties before it finally closed last year could now make way for homes.

David Summerell, of Nailsea, has applied for planning permission to knock down The Royal Artillery Arms, in Alstone Lane, West Huntspill, to build five three-bedroom houses.

A supporting statement for the application says: “The Royal Artillery has a history of failed attempts at creating a profitable business and the two most recent landlords have both gone into receivership in quick succession.”

It says bringing the pub up to scratch would cost around £300,000.

The statement adds: “Although this proposal does mean the loss of a community building investigations show that there are a further eight public houses within a one-mile radius of this premises.

“This, along with a historical lack of investment, go a long way to explain its current status.

“The property has now been vacant for some 12 months and is now in a very poor state of repair and has become an eyesore in a prominent location.

“For these reasons we believe that redevelopment of this site with a high quality residential development is the most appropriate use.”

The development would include 15 car parking spaces.

Julie Trott, who lives in West Huntspill, said: “I used to go to the pub years ago.

“It does look quite shabby now and it's only going to get worse as time goes on.

“Personally, I have no issue with it being made into houses.”