Plans to turn a Coseley pub into a convenience store would lead to the loss of a community asset according to objectors.

Dudley Council planners are set to rule on an application to convert The Old Chainyard on Castle Street into a shop.

Applicants Red Oak Taverns Limited say the pub is not economically viable but the plan has attracted criticism from people who would prefer to see the bar stay open.

John Corser, chairman of Dudley and South Staffordshire Campaign for Real Ale, said: “I am objecting to the loss of this public house, which is a community asset to Roseville and the wider Coseley area.

“It is one of the few real ale pubs in the area and serves an important role in putting on events for the local community.

“It is well used by regulars and visited by Camra members from across the West Midlands and further afield.”

The Old Chainyard is believed to date from the middle of the last century when it operated at The Red Lion and is one of six pubs within a one mile radius.

Plans submitted to the council propose demolition of a single storey extension to the side of the building and a new extension at the rear of the site to create a retail space.

A report from real estate company Savills commissioned by the applicant concluded the business is not viable as it is and would not become viable even if it underwent a refurbishment.

The report says: “Public houses such as The Old Chainyard have suffered more than others since the economic downturn of 2008 and more recently due to them not having the economies of scale to compete with large managed house operations.

“The property has no kitchen facilities, it is unlikely to attract much ‘destination’ custom and instead had to rely on the local population.

“There are better located venues with superior facilities within close proximity.”