A pub owner who wanted to change it to a cafe and homes has had his appeal refused.

Austen Davies was refused permission by Carlisle City Council in February, when he asked to change the use of the Centurion Inn in Walton from a public house.

His plans would have seen it changed into a cafe or restaurant, with first floor accommodation.

The proposal was rejected on the grounds it would result in the loss of “a valued and valuable community facility”.

However, Mr Davies appealed that decision, taking it to the Planning Inspectorate.

It published its ruling this week, following a site visit last month, and dismissed the appeal.

The inspectorate particularly singled out the strength of local objection to the proposal – and concerns over the manner in which it was closed – and that the Centurion is “regarded as a valued community facility”.

It states: “As a valued community facility and one that, prior to its closure, provided considerable value to the local community in Walton, The Centurion is very much the type of local facility that Policy CM3 seeks to safeguard, even if it is not currently fulfilling those roles.”

The report also questions Mr Davies’ claims that the pub was not viable. It says: “It is surprising that the appellant is unable to produce any accounts for the last few years of its operation or any other evidence as to any financial losses incurred.

“The absence of such information means that the appellant’s claim can be regarded as little more than an unsubstantiated assertion.”

Mr Davies’ assertions that a cafeteria could still serve the community’s needs were also dismissed, with the inspectorate ruling “the proposed use would make only a very limited contribution to meeting the community’s needs”.

It concludes: “At no time has the opportunity for continuance of the public house operation been explored since the building has never been placed on the market as a going concern.

“Rather, the appellant’s actions, in surrendering the licence, carrying out demolition works, and removing the bar, kitchen facilities and all external signs of the building’s authorised use, strongly suggest that he has never had any desire or intention to explore such an opportunity.”