TOWN councillors have given their support to a plan to convert the Duke’s Head pub into housing, due to tough economic times.

The owners of the Hythe pub have applied for permission to change the use of the main Grade II-listed, early 19th century building to three homes and for an outbuilding to become a separate dwelling.

It is the second time plans to redevelop the pub have come before the council. In April last year the town council said they would support a change of use if the owners could show that the business was no longer viable.

A report by chartered building surveyors, Godden Allen Lawn, submitted as part of the application, states: “Obviously the proximity of Sainsbury’s with supermarket prices and offers has had an adverse affect, but even so the neighbourhood has five public houses and two subsidised clubs in total competing for the same dwindling customer base.”

It adds that while the business keeps its “head above water” it does not generate enough to pay for renovations that are needed and reveals that attempts to sell the business as a going-concern have so far been unsuccessful.

At a meeting last Tuesday, councillors on Hythe Town Council’s plans and works committee agreed to support the conversion of the Dymchurch Road pub.

The plans submitted as part of the application also propose the demolition of garages in the car park of the pub to make way for four flats, but town councillors were only asked to comment on the listed building consent on Tuesday.

Cllr David Own said: “We sent this back because we needed confirmation that the business was not viable. I think we have that now.”

He said he had “grave concerns” about putting flats on the site but added: “On the basis of what is here I am happy to agree this proposal.”

Cllr Malcolm Dearden said: “I can remember when it was a very busy pub.

“Although I regret the loss of the Duke’s Head to the town, people are not going out like they used to. Therefore I agree that this is all they can do.”

Shepway District Council will make the final decision and has a target decision date of December 16 for both the listed building consent and the planning application for the pub.