THE loss of a pub will cause "long-term" harm to its community, real ale campaigners have warned.
Herefordshire's branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has opposed plans to convert The Broadleys pub on Ross Road in Hereford into a drive-thru coffee shop.
The group described the loss of the pub, which closed its doors in 2024, as "real and permanent long-term harm to the communities that rely upon it."
CAMRA warned of negative economic effects and an increased risk of "levels of loneliness and social isolation" if the pub is lost to the plans, which have been submitted by new owners, Killik & Co Trustees Limited.
They highlighted that the pub, listed as an asset of community value in 2015, served as a vital meeting point for social groups and an affordable venue for occasions.
No suitable alternative venue exists within reasonable walking distance in the South of Hereford, and past regulars of The Broadleys may not wish to drink in other pubs that they feel do not provide the same atmosphere or facilities, CAMRA argued.
The group has further raised concerns that the building was marketed for only five months and that no viability report has been submitted to support their application.
Killik & Co Trustees Limited said in their submission to planners that evidence "demonstrates that the Broadleys Public House is no longer viable as a community facility" adding that "concerns regarding its economic viability have been longstanding".
The application also said the pub had been operated under "a series of short-term annual tenancies from 2018 to 2021."
Although the owners claimed the pub was unsustainable, CAMRA questioned the lack of supporting financial figures.
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They argued that, under new ownership, both food and drink sales could be improved and suggested adding a carvery to boost trade.
CAMRA believes the pub’s location on a major route makes it viable for both locals and those passing through the city.
They compared The Broadleys to the Vaga Tavern in Hunderton, which saw a successful turnaround with investment from Wye Valley.
"The relatively modest investment made by Wye Valley has transformed this pub from a neglected under-performer with a problematic reputation into the excellent and well-run community pub that it is today," the group said.
The application, which is yet to be decided upon, received over 50 objections.
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