A FORMER Dearham pub is set to be converted into housing after planning permission was submitted to the council.

An application has been submitted to convert the former Ploughman Inn, Maryport Road, Dearham, to a new three bedroom house.

The applicant wishes to change the site into housing, saying in documents that currently 'it's condition does not contribute positively to the visual amenity of the area, as would a historic vernacular ruin', with the applicants arguing that the project 'will also support the local economy through employment of local businesses for construction and materials'.

The former popular village pub closed in 2014 and has been vacant since its closure.

The property was put on the market for a second time by an estate agent in 2020, and has now been on the market consistently for three years.

The application will 'benefit' the village if approved, with applicants saying that the approval will enhance the 'visual appearance' of the once-popular and well-used village pub.

A design and access statement said: "The proposed design is appropriate for the site and wider area, in that it is sympathetic to the original character of the site, by virtue of proposed traditional materials and external finishes, such as timber windows and lime-based render.

"These protect the integrity of the building whilst respecting its historic value and setting.

"Externally, the property will have an an enhanced visual appearance, which will reflect the original, and will benefit the visual amenity of the surrounding area, making for an attractive, welcoming, safe and pleasant setting."

The applicant said that the proposal will fit the character that the building has always held.

The statement went on: "The proposal will not erode the character or amenity of the site and wider area, by virtue of sensitive external finishes, traditional materials, and modest design alterations."

The application for the conversion of the former public house was submitted on April 24 and will now be decided upon by the new Cumberland Authority, following a consultation period within the council.