The developer says not enough villagers used the pub

The Old Barn Inn at the Three Cocks, near Brecon, could make way for houses, if a planning application is successful.

Some residents say it is vital to the community because there is no other meeting point.

But the developer cites business reasons for the closure of the pub, saying it is no longer viable.

Villager Chris Jones, 53, said he has lived in or near the village all his life and said the pub, which is no longer open, was vital.

It is the third pub in the area to close for exactly the same reason Tim Morgan, Bywyd Developments

"There is nothing else in the village and there's no community hall," he said.

"It's part of the community and has always been there - it was a well-built barn which was turned into a pub," he said.

Mr Jones and some of the villagers have written letters complaining about the outline planning application which is expected to go before Brecknock Planning Committee in early March.

The application has already been before Powys Council where it was rejected.

A revised application will be heard by county councillors, confirmed a spokesman for Powys County Council.

Kirsty Williams AM has also lent her personal support to keeping the "family" pub.

She said it could be well-rewarded by the local community.

Low-cost housing

But Tim Morgan, of Bywyd Developments and who acts for his owner son Sam, said the pub was no longer viable.

Mr Morgan said the Old Barn Inn was not a community facility - like a post office or school.

He said the pub was busy in the summer months but only open two days a week at the end.

"It is the third pub in the area to close for exactly the same reason, really - it was up to the locals, they needed to use it.

"There are successful pubs in the area which are very close but they are heavily dependent on food, the traditional pub is just not viable."

Mr Morgan said low-cost housing is being planned for the site, which is around half an acre.

"It's got a lovely stream and river bank which we hope to improve and enhance for the community," he said.

James Daley, from the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra), said five pubs have been lost in Monmouthshire in the last five years.