A PUB in Bewsey could be turned into a shop under new proposals.

Warrington Borough Council has received a planning application for a change of use of the Bells on Longshaw Street in order to create a retail unit.

Plans, which also include the partial demolition of the building, would see the shop open daily from 7am to 10pm.

The applicant had previously considered demolishing the pub to construct a four-storey apartment block on the 994sq m site, but has instead decided to redevelop the existing building – creating 14 new parking spaces.

In the proposal to Warrington Borough Council, the applicant states: “The pub in question has a history of licensing and anti-social behaviour problems, including violence and drug use.

“Although this is the only pub on Longshaw Street, there are three public houses within one mile of this site – the Brooklands, the Hoop and Mallet and the Rodney.

“It is clear from reading the licensing committee report that the Bells public house cannot be seen as a positive amenity for the local area.

“The proposed use is for the wholesale conversion of the existing building to a retail outlet, which would allow the creation of new part and full-time jobs for the local area.”

However, several residents have objected to the scheme after expressing concerns over traffic, parking, litter and the number of shops already in the nearby area.

One written objection said: “I already struggle to park in the area, there is already rubbish which will get worse and cause mice or rats and there are already plenty of shops in our area with at least four in walking distance – one of which is opposite the Bells.

“I think we should, as a community, use the space as something useful for families and young children.”