Councillors urged to give pub a chance

Dr Geoff Brantwood believes The Eagle Inn at Skerne, Driffield, has the potential to be a successful pub in the right hands.

He will tell East Yorkshire Council planners that the former pub is one of only 11 nationwide not to have a bar counter or hatch.

The building is listed and of historical interest for the plainness and simplicity of its little altered interior.

Dr Brantwood, a heritage expert with the Campaign for Real Ale, said: “I will be asking if all stones have been turned to really make sure that it is not going to work as a pub – which I don’t believe is the case. More effort could be put into this to create a business, keep a historical asset and give a facility to the community and create jobs.”

Camra has been backed by Lib Dem MP Greg Mulholland, chairman of the All Parliamentary Save the Pub Group, who believes The Eagle Inn, which closed in 2004, remains a potentially viable pub.

Businessman Angus Naylor says the house conversion would maintain the internal layout. Planning officers are urging councillors to back the conversion scheme.