DEVELOPERS refused permission to build a new pub in a Suffolk town may yet win the day as a public inquiry is launched.Commercial developers Jackson Projects Ltd had hoped to build the pub on land between Needham Road and the A1120 in Stowmarket.

DEVELOPERS refused permission to build a new pub in a Suffolk town may yet win the day as a public inquiry is launched.

Commercial developers Jackson Projects Ltd had hoped to build the pub on land between Needham Road and the A1120 in Stowmarket.

The firm said the pub, which would have been run by Pathfinder Pubs, may have created between 40 and 50 new jobs and boosted the town's economy.

The application was refused by Mid Suffolk District Council in the summer.

But yesterday, a district council spokeswoman confirmed a public inquiry into the application will be held.

The developers said that when applying for permission they had designed the complex to reflect a group of traditional farm buildings due to its out of town location. And they had aimed for a family orientated food led operation - not a town centre pub with television screens and loud music.

But John Matthissen, a parish councillor at Great Finborough and a Green Party campaigner locally, was among those who had concerns.

He said: “There should be proper employment, not just part-time waitressing jobs, it's a key site for employment there.

“This site is also right next to the national cycle network and yet no provision was made for a special entranceway for cyclists or pedestrians straight off the route - people had to walk or cycle several hundred yards round the back and access the pub from the rear through the car park.

“It is also not near many homes, and it was sending a signal that people should drive. We are encouraging people not to drink drive, do we really want more people to drive than walk and cycle.”

n Anyone who wants to comment on the plans should write to case officer Kate Bennett at The Planning Inspectorate, Room 3/16 Eagle Wing, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN quoting appeal reference APP/W3520/A/06/2030002/NWF by December 26.