The owners of a Macclesfield pub have re-applied for permission to convert it into a house saying the business is not viable.

A previous application for The British Flag Inn and the two-bedroom flat above to become a single dwelling was refused by Cheshire East at the beginning of this year.

The pub, of 42 Coare Street, could become of many Macclesfield pubs in residential areas to become accommodation (like The Albert, The Navigation, Bridgewater Arms).

The council's planners said there was insufficient evidence regarding the community value of the pub, its viability as a business and the absence of recent marketing efforts.

This latest application, from owner Lloyd Roberts, provides the requested information.

The pub was previously a Robinsons Brewery pub, but has since become a free house. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

A planning statement from Smashbox Architecture, on behalf of the applicants, states: "While the pub once served as a popular venue for sporting events and social gatherings, changing consumer habits, increased competition from cafés and pop-up bars and the advent of at-home entertainment have contributed to its decline."

Indeed, a coffee shop has opened around the corner. But there are no pop-up bars on the nearby streets. However, the pub is close to Macclesfield town centre for competition, and nearby pub The Old Ship also underwent a similar fate.

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The document provides a detailed financial breakdown for the council and states: "The British Flag is no longer a viable business."

It also states that when the Coare Street pub was marketed as a business there were no viewings or offers.

The planning document says: "Mr and Mrs Roberts have taken every reasonable step to continue operating The British Flag as a public house.

Click the red link below, to view the planning application. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"However, the financial and practical realities they face make its continued operation unsustainable."

The pub used to be owned by Stockport's Robinsons Brewery, until 2010. But the pub continued to serve Robbie's beers afterwards.

The planning application, number 24/3247M, can be viewed on the planning portal on Cheshire East Council's website.

Members of the public can submit comments until October 21.

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