HOPES have been raised that the only pub in Trefechan, which closed over a year ago, could reopen.

The Fountain Inn, which closed in April 2020, has now been sold.

The sale sparked local fears that the pub might be turned into a residential property.

But on social media, the selling agent Geraint Hughes said it is the “purchaser’s intention to fully renovate the current upper-floor accommodation and retain the ground floor as a pub and restaurant”, to be leased out.

Aberystwyth town councillor and Trefechan resident Kerry Ferguson said it is hoped the new owners will “restore it to its former glory”, and hoped it wouldn’t be converted into a home.

“Unfortunately as a private sale, there is little that we as town councillors can do. If a change of use is put forward to the planning committee, there will be a chance for councillors and thus town council to put forward any comments or objections,” Kerry said.

“On a personal level, as a resident in Trefechan myself, it would be a huge shame for us to lose the Fountain Inn as a pub and restaurant – especially with increased importance on community venues.

“Of course, the pub itself has been closed for just over a year, but I do think it’s important we bear in mind the closure came from retirement rather than a struggling business.

“The Fountain Inn was always a popular pub for local residents, and a key part of our community here, so I really hope the buyer bears this in mind, and restores it to its former glory.”

Trefechan county councillor and Aberystwyth town councillor Endaf Edwards added: “A pub in the Trefechan area is a community asset and I would be sad to see it go, having visited the Fountain on several occasions.

“With possible future developments in the area I feel that the Trefechan area needs a place where people can congregate.

“The Fountain was the only place in Trefechan where people could do this. The difficulty is that private property owners can choose a buyer and there is nothing anyone can do. The council can come in on a planning application for change of use, and such an application will need to be considered at the time.”

In a comment on Facebook, Mr Hughes said: “The Fountain Inn, Trefechan, was placed on the open market in early 2021 and has been openly marketed and advertised. Several interested parties have viewed the property, including some people who have commented on this post.

“Whilst an offer has now been accepted (subject to contract), it is the purchasers’ intention to fully renovate the current upper floor accommodation and retain the ground floor as a pub and restaurant.

“Following completion, the purchaser will be looking to rent the pub and restaurant.

“Whilst I have not been instructed to market the lease, I will be more than happy to pass on the details of anybody interested in leasing the pub and restaurant following completion.”

Mr Hughes has been approached for further comment.