An "eyesore" former pub in the heart of a West Cumbrian village could be demolished and turned into housing.

Nine homes would then be built on the site of the former Griffin Hotel and its function room in Frizington, according to plans received by Copeland Council.

The pub and its fenced-off car park has been called an “eyesore” by Cumbria County councillor Tim Knowles.

Mr Knowles said a temporary fence was erected around the pub’s car park about two years ago, but Copeland council “was unable to do anything about it”.

He added that fencing off the car park had encouraged motorists to park on the street near the Frizington's post office - causing congestion on village's roads.

Mr Knowles said: “This pub and its car park has been an eyesore for the people of Frizington for a long time.

“I haven’t seen the plans yet, so I can’t comment on them specifically. But housing would seem, to me, to be a good use of the land.

"Any practical plan which improves the state of the current site and is suitable for the needs and design of the village is welcomed."

He suggested that residents who may be concerned about the use of the land should view the plans and be able to have their say.

The plans are available for public viewing from Copeland Council's desk at Whitehaven's Market Hall.

News of the application comes as another West Cumbrian village pub, the former Ewe and Lamb Inn, at Padstow, Keekle, is set to be demolished.

Copeland planners have approved the plans from Hawthorn Estates Ltd to demolish the former pub and build a new house in its place.