A VILLAGE campaign to save its only pub is facing two significant milestones. Residents of Woodcroft near Chepstow are campaigning against plans by the owners of the former Rising Sun pub to convert it into two homes.

An application by owners Worthy Developments will be decided by the Forest of Dean Council's planning committee on September 9. The owners have also challenged a decision by the council to register the pub as a 'community asset'.

The registration could make it more difficult to change the use of the building and a 'first-tier tribunal' is due to be held to hear the request.

The application lists the Forest Council and the Save our Sun committee (SOS) as respondents, said Lynne Fletcher of SOS.

The planning application has attracted many objections from both local people and visitors to the area, particularly climbers, who have used the pub which is close to the cliffs above the Wye.

Mrs Fletcher said: "The council's Core Strategy says the loss of community facilities, including pubs, will not be permitted unless they are unviable and cannot be made viable and alternative convenient facilities are available.

"The Rising Sun is the only pub in Woodcroft and was well used by locals and visitors.

"The nearest alternatives are currently in Sedbury or Chepstow."