A PUB that 'will never open again' has hit the market.

The Tunnel Top in Dutton, outside Northwich, is up for sale.

Having shut its doors as a pub in 2017, the premises has since been used as a private property.

An application was submitted to Halton Borough Council last year to make this change permanent but as of yet, no decision has been made.

Once a popular watering hole, the Tunnel Top achieved CAMRA real ale accreditation, sponsored a youth football team and hosted the Hartford pool team.

Declining footfall and competition meant it was 'no longer feasible' to keep the Tunnel Top open, according to the aforementioned application.

It adds: “We hope the council can support the application and see that there is no longer and has not been a viable business at the pub for more than five years.

"The property will never again open as a public house due to other surrounding pubs such as the Preston Brook, Queen of Hearts and The Riverside Inn due to the retirement of the owners.”

The pub stopped trading in 2017The pub stopped trading in 2017 (Image: Rightmove/Fleurets)

However, the listing published this month by estate agents Fleurets Limited says there is the 'opportunity' to reopen the pub.

Priced at £700,000, it is described as a “destination food house” with an open plan trading area, kitchen and three-bedroom flat.

Included in the sale is a hard-standing car park with room for up to 25 vehicles as well as a children’s play area and a former bowling green.

The listing adds that the property 'may suit alternative use', subject to planning.

The current application (case number 23/00082/COU) has a decision target date of December 31, 2024.

The pub is priced at £700,000The pub is priced at £700,000 (Image: Rightmove/Fleurets)