RESIDENTS opposing controversial housing plans say a pub which would be demolished to make way for the homes is a focal point for the community.

Punch Taverns is seeking planning permission to knock down the Slow and Easy Hotel and build 20 houses and four flats or maisonettes on the site.

The hotel is in Manchester Road, Lostock Gralam, and is well known for hosting community events and regular band nights.

Punch Taverns is seeking approval from Cheshire West and Chester Council for the scheme, which has prompted numerous objections from residents.

Keith Woods from Melchett Crescent, Rudheath, said: “The Slow and Easy is a focal point of the community for socialising, karaoke and facilities for parties.

“The pub has recently taken on a new lease of life, with new customers and old ones returning, and with new management, who spend considerable time organising entertainment for the community.

“It would be terrible to see the pub demolished, and a hole would be left in the community.”

Stephen Lamb, from Griffiths Drive, Rudheath, said: “What Lostock needs is for the pub to stay as it is.

“It is an asset to the community, is the last pub in the area and is going from strength to strength.”

Carl Dennis from Harris Road, Lostock Gralam, said: “The Slow and Easy is a focal point and hub within our community as more houses are being built in the area.”

Sharon Clark from Carlton Road, Northwich, said the pub was fast becoming a ‘centre point of the community.’ “The area needs to keep its pub to allow people from all walks of life to meet and enjoy the happy environment that this establishment has now started to offer.

“It would a shame to build this pub up and just to take it away again.”

Stuart Rose from Paulden Road, Lostock Gralam, said the loss of another pub in the community would be ‘devastating’.

Residents calling for the pub to be retained say Lostock Gralam does not need more houses.

A Punch Taverns spokesman said: “The opportunity for housing on the site for the Slow and Easy pub is an option we had been considering for a considerable amount of time, hence we have submitted planning permission.

“We acknowledge that the pub has improved performance recently but this housing application allows us to explore all our options given the overall trading history of the pub."