The Red House Pub is now disused

Cardiff council refused permission to demolish the Red House pub in Grangetown to make way for flats.

The building was once the haunt of sailors from around the world and local people want it preserved.

The Planning Inspectorate for Wales is hearing a two-day appeal from the developers at City Hall in Cardiff.

GVA Grimley, the company representing the developers, say new development in the area means the building is now out of place.

Cardiff council officers recommended the development should go ahead, but councillors rejected their advice and turned down the application.

Once the appeal finishes, the planning inspectorate will give its decision within five to seven weeks time.

Their decision will decide the building's fate, unless the developers choose to appeal to the High Court in the event the decision goes against them.

They want to build 27 flats and four town houses on the site.

Significant

The pub in Ferry Road, Grangetown closed for business after nearby developments meant the road it is on was closed and customer numbers dropped.

It is now surrounded by new housing and the International Sports Village is being built nearby.

Local people say the building has significant historical value and want to see it turned into a tourist office or incorporated into the new sport village.

The Red House pub was first opened for business in 1871, and was a favourite haunt for the city's dockers.

It was originally known as the Railway Hotel but became the Red House in 1926.