A VILLAGE pub dating back to the 18th century is under threat from property developers.

An application to demolish The Nailers Green Pub on Brandlesholme Road in Greenmount and build 27 luxury apartments on the site has been submitted by Dunham Bros (Ramsbottom) Ltd.

The plans have angered local villagers who claim they will lose a "valuable amenity in the village". And they started a letter writing campaign to Bury's planning department opposing the proposals.

The plan for a three-storey apartment block has been described as "monstrous" by residents.

One villager who lives a few cottages away from the Thwaites owned pub told the Bury Times: "After viewing the plans at Craig House I can confirm that the height of the proposed development alone make it an absolute eyesore and the whole thing is totally out of keeping with a village such as Greenmount."

The Nailers Green has been a village amenity since 1787. The original building was knocked down in the 1960s and a new one built in its place.

"It is part and parcel of Greenmount village life and I find it disgraceful that anyone should want to pull it down just to make a quick buck," said another resident.

The plans will be considered at a forthcoming meeting of Bury's planning control committee.