A GROUP of residents have lined up in opposition to plans for a Wetherspoons pub near their homes – saying it would turn the area into “Blackpool Illuminations”.

The pub chain J D Wetherspoon wants to convert the former Everatts furniture store in Gowthorpe, Selby, into its first outlet in the town, and has said the £1 million scheme could create 40 jobs.

But people living in nearby Milton Place have teamed up to lodge a combined objection to Selby District Council, which is expected to make a decision on the proposals shortly. In a letter to planning officers, they said their main fear was how noise and light from the new pub – which could open as early as 7am every day and close at 1.30am between Thursday and Saturday – would affect their lives.

“The noise would potentially go on all day every day, and it would be ever-present in what would be a popular pub,” said the letter from the seven-strong group.

“The constant chatter would get louder as more alcohol is consumed and could lead to boisterous behaviour. Any of this is totally unacceptable in this area, which is close to residential accommodation.

“There is also the question of light and we would object to the building being lit on the back like Blackpool Illuminations, as it would impinge on our bedrooms. We do not want to stop the town developing or prevent Wetherspoons coming to Selby, but it is the wrong place for this proposal and residents must have rights when a development is proposed which would affect our lives like this.”

Concerns have also been raised by some residents in nearby St James’ House, but both Selby Town Council and North Yorkshire Police have said they have no objections to the Wetherspoons plans, which include a new timber frontage and main entrance to the building. Everatts closed last October after 75 years of trading.