THERE will be no reprieve for a village pub following permission for it to be converted into housing.

For the second time, councillors defied planning officers' advice and voted in favour of the conversion of the Cross Keys Inn, North Stainley, near Ripon.

Because councillors against planners' advice at a previous meeting, they had to hear the application again.

The council's cabinet member for planning Councillor Richard Cooper supported planning officer Mike Warden, who had recommended refusal. Mr Warden said closure of the pub would be loss of a community facility.

But applicant Chris Taylor made a plea for the conversion to go-ahead and Councillor Nigel Simms said it would not be long before the pub had to close anyway.