AN application to convert a former pub into houses has been rejected.

Owners of The Crown Inn at Rumwell submitted the planning application to Somerset West and Taunton Council.

Applicant Swanmore Estates wanted to convert the existing listed premises into two homes, with demolition of part of the single storey buildings and two new homes built in the garden.

But the planning authority rejected the applications, on the grounds 'the benefits would not outweigh the harm'.

A spokesman said: "The proposed development by reason of the new build dwellings would result in the loss of historic fabric and character of the pub and impact on its setting and create a development along this main road outside of the settlement limits.

"This would adversely affect the setting of the adjacent listed building and the benefits of the scheme are not considered to outweigh the harm."

To view the two applications search numbers 05/18/0054 or 05/18/0055/LB on Somerset West and Taunton's website.