A village pub which can’t find a buyer may be turned into two four bedroom homes with car parking spaces if planners back a development proposal for the site.

The mainly derelict Fox and Hounds which sits in a 17th century Grade II-listed building in Barley High Street at the junction with Church End, has been closed for about a year and for sale for a number of months, but has failed to attract a buyer who wants to continue running it as a pub.

In a statement issued with the planning application, Derbyshire-based consultants Paul Gaughan said: “Although the local community may see the public house an important village asset they fail to sustain it with their patronage.

“Barley is divorced from any significant main road and therefore cannot attract passing trade. The listed buildings are in dire need of major renovation especially to the roof covering which is leaking into the structure at several points.”

A public meeting will be held by the parish council on Wednesday at 8pm in Church End.