A CONSTRUCTION company has applied to convert a former popular pub into four homes.

The Black Horse Inn, in Colden Common, could be demolished if the plans submitted by McConnell Construction are approved.

The pub, in Main Road, has remained closed since the landlord of 37 years and former parish councillor Michael King died of cancer in 2014.

Hampshire Chronicle: Site planSite plan (Image: MDT Design, Winchester City Council)

READ MORE: Michael King Pavilion opened in honour of villager in Colden Common

The proposal to redevelop the site would see four three-bedroom homes built in replacement and eight of the existing 10 parking spaces retained.

A spokesperson for McConnell Construction confirmed the pub is a residential property, after a change of use from pub to house was successfully completed in November 2014.

The spokesperson said: "We understand a few locals are not aware of this situation and still see the building as a pub as the exterior has had minimal change.

"This building is programmed for demolition within the application as deemed unsafe and beyond repair now."

This is not the first time people have applied to repurpose the site, with plans submitted in 2021 to demolish the pub and build two one-bed and five two-bedroom properties in its place. However, the application was withdrawn.

In the summer, the pavilion in Colden Common Recreation Ground was renamed and opened in honour of Mike King.

To view the planning application, that was validated this month, go to the planning portal on the Winchester City Council website and use the reference 23/02770/FUL.