A PLANNING application for seven new houses has been met with a raft of objections.

Residents are concerned the proposals would “threaten” the last remaining pub in the village but developers say the plans would “enhance” the viability of the business.

Proposals have been submitted to Dorset Council by Montpellier Land and Development for two 2-bedroom and five 3-bedroom houses, with 18 additional parking spaces, on land adjacent to and behind the Old Ox Inn, in Shillingstone.

A public consultation ran until June 24 with responses received from 57 households in the immediate area.

Many were concerned over the impact of the development on the Old Ox Inn - the last remaining pub in the village.

Additional concerns were raised surrounding the impact of the development on the surrounding environment - with seven trees proposed to be removed.

CLP Planning, an agency working on behalf of the developers, said none of the trees had a ‘safe future life expectancy of greater than 30 years’ and Montpellier said they’ve proposed “extensive hedge and tree planting.”

Among the objections was a lengthy 24-page submission from Shillingstone Parish Council that said the proposed development would be “in direct conflict” with the Shillingstone Neighbourhood Plan.

They said: “The main reasons for the objection are due to the potential impact on the viability of the Old Ox Inn, now and in the future, and the impact on the character of the area given the scale and intensity of development proposed, including its impact on the significance and setting of the Old Ox Inn.”

Montpellier said they’ve sought to engage proactively with the community to present their plans and address “misunderstandings” but their offer was turned down by the parish council.

Neville Smith-Daniels, co-director at Montpellier Land and Development, said: “The very extensive grassed area behind the pub is largely under-utilised and makes a relatively small commercial contribution to the business.

“Aside from a great village effort to mark the Diamond Jubilee in 2012 there have been only three major events requiring such large marquees in the last 12 years.

“A sheltered, attractively landscaped beer garden would provide a more year-round outdoor facility and improve customer experience and enjoyment.

“It is important for the pub and other services in the village that a balanced population growth is supported to include economically active people.

“The proposed mix of housing offers opportunities for smaller families and first-time buyers and could potentially benefit other businesses and self-employed workers in Shillingstone.”

The application will be considered by Dorset Council at a later date.