A VILLAGE pub could make way for houses and apartments if plans get the go-ahead.

Towngate Developments wants to demolish the Hole in the Wall, Foulridge, and build a trio of three-storey houses and two three-storey apartment blocks.

The pub, in Town Gate, once thrived alongside the neighbouring Working Men’s Club, as well as the New Inn and the Hare and Hounds, both in Skipton Old Road. But it has lain empty since its last tenants departed in 2007.

Cafe Cargo, which opened at the canal wharf earlier this year, has provided further competition for the pubs in the area.

John Ingham, of East Lancs Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), said it would be ‘regrettable’ to see the pub demolished but conceded that it may not be viable for it to re-open as a watering hole due to ‘market forces’ in the area.

The campaigner, who runs the Rising Sun Inn at Blacko, said: “It’s been closed for so long and there are a few other pubs in the village. The working men’s club is virtually next door and it seems to be doing reasonably well.”

Pendle Council’s planning officers will make a decision on the proposals unless three or more objections are received.

If objections are received, the plans will be referred to Pendle Council’s Colne Committee for discussion at its December meeting.

Foulridge Parish Council will also discuss the application at its meeting in the village hall on Monday November 2, at 7pm.