A former pub in Wrotham could be turned into homes and two holiday rental rooms - despite strong public opposition.

An application, submitted to Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, seeks to transform the Vigo Inn in Gravesend Road.

It has been in use for over 400 years but recently encountered problems with noise complaints and was served an abatement notice in 2013

Many local residents became unhappy with the level of music coming from the venue which held a number of live events.

Between 2010 and 2014 more than 50 complaints were made to the council. The pub owners were ordered to remove the Inn sign and move garden furniture from the front of the premises.

The new application states no major alterations to the building's exterior would be carried out and the appearance would remain relatively similar.

A wall would be constructed in between the two current buildings to provide separate homes.

A new kitchen and bathroom would be fitted on the ground floor of the property's left hand side along with the installation of electricity and water supplies.

The Ashwell family, who previously owned the establishment, said the need to close the inn down is nothing to do with the owners or landlords but more to do with 'changing culture'.

Local resident, Mick Norman, objected to the proposal and said it would be a loss of amenity to those in the surrounding area.

He added: "Much is made of the pub's isolated location in the planning application but the fact is it is within walking distance for a substantial number of people.

"It's also a loss of an important facility for hikers. The Vigo lies on the North Downs Way and is shown in the official National Trail Guide as a refreshment point.

"It would also mean the loss of a pub that has a national reputation as an outlet for real ale of outstanding quality."

Jonh Curtis, another local resident, said he is also strongly against the proposal. In a letter he wrote: "As the Inn now has a car park and opened the garden, if run properly, it could be a viable amenity for locals."

Alan Bullock reinforced the objection and said: "I am one of many locals who were delighted when the pub reopened having been a regular for many years.

"The pub could still be successful. It is well located with a great history and reputation, but needs a genuine, ideally experienced landlord in charge."

The applications claim the use of outbuildings as holiday rooms would provide local people a cheap and convenient place to escape and relax. They also claim walkers who travel along the North Downs Way and Pilgrims way often look for a place to stay overnight.

Plans will be discussed by the council at a meeting on May 27.

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