The Newtownabbey Times reported two applications were made to the Department of the Environment Planning Office - both in the name of a Mr K. Montgomery - for 12 residential units and two retail units, with car parking for the Ballynure Ballad Inn site in Ballynure.
An initial application was submitted on November 2005 for the pub site at Main Street, and it is understood it is in the final stages of consultation.
The second application, launched in February of this year, is described as being in "the early stages of the planning process".
If successful, it would include the demolition of buildings from 27a to 37 Main Street and will see 36 new homes, car parking and associated landscaping.
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Local residents have revealed their anger at the plans. One local, who did not wish to be named, spoke to The Newtownabbey Times, saying: "One sure way to kill a village is to close its pub."
"Why close an important centre of the village to replace it with more apartments? Why can a new pub not be part of the redevelopment? The land around the pub could be developed so that the Ballad could be left alone."
The Ballynure and District Community Association have lodged n objection with the Planning Office, stating the loss of the commercial unit would be "detrimental to the expansion of the village".
Peter Watson, Association Chairman, revealed the group has brought up the issue of the dangers a further increase in traffic would bring to the narrow road.
He said: "Planning Service have replied with a standard response, indicating to us that they are unlikely to take the slightest notice of our objection.
"At no time have the Planning Office approached the Community Association or, to our knowledge, taken any survey or note of residents' views on this development."
The Ballad Inn - named after the traditional Ballad of Ballynure, made famous by Tommy Maken - is a popular pub with locals, which hosts weekly live music sessions and charity events.
(JM)
