The Bay Tree pub, a Grade II listed building in Castle Cary owned by local councillor Kevin Messenger, is set to become a private residence following unanimous approval from Somerset Council’s planning committee south. The pub, situated on B3152 South Street at the southern entrance to the town, has been closed since October 2025.
Efforts by estate agents Cooper and Tanner to sell the pub, listed with a guide price of £465,000, have failed to attract any viable buyers. Addressing the development, the planning committee noted that the town maintains a sustainable night-time economy despite the closure of the Bay Tree.
Located within Castle Cary’s conservation area, the former pub lies just north of the town cemetery and near a recently approved development of 46 homes. The establishment ceased operations due to declining trade, rising operational costs, and shifting customer habits, closing a few weeks prior to the final decision on the housing development.
READ MORE: Bath student nearly died after accidental paracetamol overdose caused organ failure
READ MORE: Somerset Council to End Passport to Leisure Discount Scheme from January 2027
The proposed conversion plans include minimal changes to preserve the building’s historic character while enhancing accessibility for future residents. Councillor Kevin Messenger refrained from participating in the committee’s discussion due to his ownership of the property.
During the committee meeting held on 15 September in Yeovil, Councillor Tom Power (Conservative, Wincanton and Bruton) expressed support, highlighting that although rural pubs are increasingly rare, Castle Cary still retains two operational pubs. Councillor Stephen Page (Liberal Democrat, Somerton) added that the Bay Tree had been unsuccessfully marketed for some time and was not considered viable, especially given its distance from the town centre. He also pointed out that another local pub is undergoing refurbishment and the town offers a variety of cafés and restaurants.
Following a 20-minute debate, the planning committee granted unanimous approval for the conversion of the Bay Tree pub into a private dwelling, marking the end of its use as a public house in Castle Cary.