A much-loved village pub has applied for planning permission to change into flats – the fourth time such an application has been lodged.

The Miners Arms pub, in Shipham, is valued at around £425,000, and has been closed since October 2013.

But owners Mr and Mrs Roche have again applied to Sedgemoor District Council to change its use from a public house to a residential property. It is hoped the change in its use will trigger new offers from potential buyers.

The once-thriving drinking stop, which boasts dramatic views of the Mendip Hills and the hamlet of Star, was advertised by a North Somerset estate agent in November. It is located in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Comments can be made on the application by April 21, by visiting www.sedgemoor.go.uk/planning and quoting number 44/16/0001.

Sedgemoor planners will then make a decision on the pub’s future.