A planning application to convert one of Wells' few remaining traditional pubs into housing has triggered a strong backlash from local residents, with some calling the move a "pathetic cash grab" and a "loss of community history".

The Cheddar Valley Inn, located at the junction of Tucker Street and Westfield Road, could be turned into two homes under proposals submitted to Somerset Council. But objections have already been lodged, many warning that Wells is on the verge of losing yet another vital public asset — and this time, for good.

"Once they're gone, they're gone," said local resident Mark O'Callaghan, who is a member of CAMRA and the East Wells Community Benefit Society. "The rate of pub closures in England is so great that every effort must be made to protect the ones we have left. This pub should be given a chance — perhaps under different ownership — to survive."

Others objected on the grounds of heritage and community impact, with Myles Carey describing the pub as a "significant part of local history" and a "community hub" that still serves residents and local sports teams.

He said: "This is a blatant attempt by Red Oak Taverns to redevelop the site for financial gain at the expense of the local community. If they can't make it work as a pub, they should sell it to someone who can — not turn it into another soulless residential box."

The developer, Red Oak Taverns — a pub company based in Ipswich — has stated publicly that it will always "explore the most suitable alternative for the community" when pubs are no longer viable. But residents say there has been no consultation or attempt to find a buyer willing to keep it open.

Several residents — including Mick Fletcher and Stephen Turner — raised concerns about the plan's failure to address a safe crossing point on Tucker Street, which is earmarked in the Wells Neighbourhood Plan.

Turner, who chairs the Strawberry Line East group, warned that the current design ignores vital access improvements that would make the busy junction safer for pedestrians, cyclists and mobility scooter users.

"The developer's plans take no account of this," he said. "Wells is a growing city with ideal topography for cycling and walking. Car-free transport should be encouraged at every opportunity."

The proposal

The plans would see the 19th-century Cheddar Valley Inn, which is considered a "positive building" in the Wells Conservation Area, converted into a one-bedroom and a two-bedroom home. While the external appearance would remain largely the same, internal changes would split the former pub into two residential dwellings, each with its own garden and parking.

Architects say the redesign respects the building's heritage, adding landscaping, green verges and new trees. Planning documents note that the building originally began life as two homes before being converted into a pub.

Not everyone is against the idea. Local resident Malcolm Gay wrote in support, saying: "As a pub, it has been noisy at times — but the real issue has been how it looks. The proposed design really improves the visual statement on the corner of our road."

Wells City Council have recommended refusal of the application, citing lack of provision for pedestrian access and questioning the pub company's failure to properly test its viability as a business or market it as a going concern.

The application is currently live on the council's planning portal and open for public comments.