PETERSFIELD'S watchdog on development matters in the town has come out against plans to turn a former historic 16th century pub in Petersfield's conservation area into flats.

The Petersfield Society is objecting to proposals to develop the vandalised Market Inn on the corner of The Square.

"This is a special building in the historic centre of our town and deserves more sensitive treatment than is being proposed. The planning application does not address local policies to alter or develop Listed buildings in conservation areas, putting our cultural heritage at risk," said Tony Struthers, chairman of The Petersfield Society.

For full story, see this week's Petersfield Herald.