Hampshire town 'too posh' for Wetherspoon pub
The Hampshire town that was "too posh" to have an Argos store has now flagged up more than 40 reasons for not having a Wetherspoon's pub.
JD Wetherspoon has applied for change of use planning permission to convert a former furniture shop next to Lymington's historic parish church into a pub.
New Forest District Council planning department has received 168 letters of objection outlining more than 40 reasons against having the pub and a petition carrying 240 signatures has been handed in.
Objectors said it would be an inappropriate development next to the church, the tranquility of the area would be at risk, there would be disturbances from late-night drinking and they wanted the area kept as shopping space.
Other complainants said there are enough pubs in the town already, it would cause antisocial behaviour, noise and litter and as there would be no rear access, customers would sit on the church walls and drink.
Vicar of the church Reverend Peter Salisbury told the Daily Echo: "A church and its churchyard are traditionally places of quiet and dignity in our culture and the siting of a pub next door would be offensive to many people."
Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gerschon said: "Wetherspoon has exchanged to purchase a site in the town, subject to planning and licensing permission being granted. Application is being heard in the next couple of days.
"People have every right to object and we will await the decision of the local authority.
"We are, however, keen to open a pub in Lymington."
