Plans to convert pub near Holywell into two houses are approved

Plans to transform a historic pub near Holywell into two new houses have been given the go ahead.Part of the former Black Lion pub in Babell will now be demolished and extensions will be built alongside it.The property has been empty since April 2018 and previous attempts to sell or lease it have been unsuccessful.Owners Andrew Russell and Jane Forking-Russell have recently had an application to convert the building into housing approved by Flintshire Council.In a report, planning officer Daniel McVey said the pub had been advertised for several years at below market value.The original part of the building dates back to the 13th century and is believed to have been a former drovers inn.The sections earmarked for demolition are modern extensions, which planning agents described as ‘unsightly’.The property was originally advertised for sale at £449,000 in 2011 before later being reduced to £425,000 in 2015.No viewings took place during that period and it was later marketed for lease at a price of £25,000, which was brought down to £15,000 by June 2016.In a statement, planning agent Kerry James said every effort had been made for the pub to be re-used as a business but this was not possible.