VILLAGERS are fighting plans to bulldoze a Hampshire pub at the heart of the local community and replace it with housing.

More than 30 people have lodged objections to a proposal to build homes on the site of the Silver Hind in Station Road, Sway.

The pub and restaurant is opposite the former Forest Heath pub, which has been turned into flats.

The potential loss of another watering hole in the village has sparked a flurry of protests to the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA), which will determine the application.

One letter of objection says: “The Silver Hind is an integral part of Sway. Lots of events take place there as it’s in the centre of the village.The community comes together at these events and that’s what a village is all about –community.”

Another letter adds: “Why continue to rip the heart out of Sway. The Silver Hind is a very important and apparently successful business offering the only real watering hole in the village.

“It serves the village wonderfully all year round following the conversion of the Forest Heath.”

Other objectors claim the housing scheme would create extra traffic problems and add to the “excessive urbanisation” of the village.

One letter says: “Shops and pubs are closing and being replaced with dwellings. Soon there will be nothing left in the village other than houses.”

Another protester adds: “Having a pub in the village is very important for its sense of community.”

Cllr Barry Rickman, leader of New Forest District Council and chairman of Sway Parish Council, told the Daily Echo: “The Silver Hind is a great establishment and seemed to be well supported by villagers and visitors to the area.”

The property was formerly the award-winning Nurse’s Cottage, a restaurant with rooms run by retired radio presenter Tony Barnfield.

Mr Barnfield retired in 2011 and sold the business to the current owners, Carol and Andy Cottingham.

The proposal to build homes on the site has been submitted by Taylor Grey Homes Ltd.

Company spokesman Kevin Perris said: “Despite their best endeavours the owners have been unable to make the restaurant financially viable. Had they been able to do so the premises would have been sold as a going concern.”

Mr Perris said Sway would continue to be served by two long established and well supported pubs – the Plough Inn at Sway Road and the Hare & Hounds at Durnstown.

He added: “We feel our proposal provides badly needed family housing in a totally appropriate location.”

Mr Cottingham declined to comment.