A NEWPORT pub which has remained closed since the last pint was pulled five years ago will be put up for auction next month.

The building, formerly The Black Horse, in Somerton Road, Lliswerry, was the centre of controversy in 2011 when Tesco made two applications to convert the building into an Express store.

More than 500 residents, led by Somerton shopkeeper Jatinderpal Bajwa, signed a petition opposing the supermarket’s plans.

Residents complained it would create nuisance, congestion and parking problems, while businesses said it would have a detrimental impact on shops in the area.

At first the council refused Tesco’s planning application but it was successful on appeal.

A report from planning inspector Anthony Thickett stated that under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 the change of use from a public house to a retail shop is a permitted development and does not require planning permission.

The appeal application, from Tesco, related to the proposed physical alterations to the building only, which were to install a new shop front and minor external alterations.

However, after the controversy surrounding what would happen to the building finally reached a conclusion the plans never came to fruition and the building remains empty.

Now the fire-damaged and vandalised property, complete with a large car park, is up for sale through Paul Fosh Auctions – with a guide price of £75,000.

Paul Fosh, owner of Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions, said: “The property comprises a roughly rectangular, level site with a derelict two-storey detached former public house that has suffered from vandalism, including fire damage.

“The site does appear to have the potential for a number of uses, including residential, subject to planning approval, but interested parties are advised to make their own inquiries to Newport City Council.”

The auction is to take place on Thursday, December 5, at 5pm, at The Park Inn Hotel, Cardiff.

If you require additional information about the property then please call 01633 254044.