A VILLAGE pub owner is blaming the effects of the foot and mouth outbreak, highway alterations and road closures for his decision to convert his business into housing

An application for six homes on the site of the Old Mill in Elmley Castle, which currently remains open, was due to be considered by Wychavon today.

Owner Tim Burrows said he regretted the decision but had no choice. "Pubs are closing at a rate of six a week and rural pubs are no exception.

"We were devastated by the foot and mouth outbreak and road closures the following year meant we were unable to recover. On top of this, the re-routing of the main A44 to the north of Pershore has diverted tourist traffic and cut our accommodation business."

The plans submitted to the council's development control committee involve converting the existing pub into two homes and building a further four in the grounds of the listed building.

Mr Burrows is planning to move into one of the homes with his wife, Nicole.

He said: "We very much regret what we have been forced to do."

Mr Burrows said if the planning application were successful the pub would remain open until April next year. The plan was due to be discussed by Wychavon District Council at a meeting of its development control committee today.