A PUB could be forced to close if it does not get permission to expand.

The Gun pub, in London Road, Pitsea, wants to create a function room whichwould be used for wakes and parties.

The plans come just eight months after a similar scheme was turned down by Basildon Council because it would harm the green belt land.

Landlady Lynn Moheni said she needs the extra income from the function venue to keep her business afloat.

She said: “There are not a lot of pubs left anymore, so this extension is basically to keep me viable.

“I believe we have special circumstances to build on the green belt land.

“We already cater for a lot of funerals because we have a good reputation and families keep coming back to us and also because we are located close to the cemetery and crematorium.

“A lot of work is being done to regenerate Pitsea at the moment, so improving our own facilities will help us to keep up with that.”

Planning officers will decide on the proposals by October.