A NEIGHBOUR has raised serious concerns over a Herefordshire pub's plan for a new building in its garden.

The Crown Inn in Woolhope, between Hereford and Ross-on-Wye, wants a new a two-bed building in the pub's garden as it pushes itself towards profitability, documents sent to Herefordshire Council said.

The application for planning permission sent to Herefordshire Council said the building, to the back of the pub, would be for guests or staff.

Tompkins Thomas planning consultants said this would be an important revenue stream for the pub, or also help it recruit long-term, quality staff.

But neighbours Norman and Barbara Whaley said they had several concerns over the bid.

They are concerned over how close the proposed building would be to its garden and oil storage tank.

It also said there could be an adverse impact on their privacy, security and "peaceful enjoyment" of the home during the night and day time. 

The couple said they were concerned over night-time lighting and more noise would disturb their sleep and be "detrimental" to their health.

They said they were objecting on the ground that their home is within a conservation area and area of outstanding natural beauty and the proposed building would lead to loss of visual amenity.

The consultants, on behalf of applicant Annalisa Slocombe, said that the plans showed a clear business model than could secure the long-term future of the rural business.

It said it was necessary as the country pub needed to change quickly to suit the changing trading conditions.

"Owners' and managers' accommodation and smaller letting units are essential to the pub's future," they added.

Plans show facing materials would be birch cladding under a flat, partially green, roof, with solar panels. Parking would be provided in the existing car park, which will be extended.

Herefordshire Council planners have set September 9 as a target date for a decision.