A PUB has been put up for sale, prompting fears it could be turned into flats.

The Gun, in London Road, Pitsea, is on the market for £750,000, but a councillor has warned developers against using it for housing.

Estate agents managing the sale also say the Gun could continue as a pub, despite a declining industry.

Mo Larkin, Conservative councillor for Pitsea South East, said any attempts to turn it into flats would be met with public opposition.

She said: “I know we need housing, but I worry we are developing a building culture where there will be too many flats. I want to see community outlets like pubs stay.”

Mark Grieg, managing director of London-based Paramount Investments, said: “Not all pubs which close are redeveloped as housing. A lot reopen again as pubs or other businesses.

“There has never been a better time to buy a pub. To pick up a pub like this at such a price represents a terrific opportunity.”