AN action group has been formed with the aim of saving the Castle Hotel in Jewel Street, following the news that SA Brain and Co is seeking planning permission to convert the much-loved and well-used pub into flats (Barry & District News, July 19).

The group plans to lobby the brewery to put on hold its plans to close the Castle in September, and to make sure that locals know how to register their objections to the planning application with the Vale.

The first meeting was attended by Castleland councillor Chris Elmore, who warned those attending that they only have until Friday, August 3, to register their objections with the planning department.

The action group has been encouraged by a huge response to the closure plans from people all over Barry. Many have joined the Save the Castle Pub Facebook group and letters have flooded in.

Steve James, who chaired the meeting said: “The Castle is a vital centre for our community, both for its neighbourhood and the town as a whole.

"A community hub like the Castle is especially important when people are facing hard times. We must all work together save the pub for our community, now and in the future.”

The group plans to petition Brains to keep the pub open while alternative options are explored which could retain a public house while enabling the rest of the large building to be adapted for beneficial use.

To get involved, join the Facebook group or contact Steve James on 01446 745439.