WORK on a controversial £3 million ‘superpub’ which will create a jobs boost is nearly finished.

The Running Hare on St David’s Park, Ewloe is to open on August 31 with the Marston’s pub set to create more than 60 jobs.

But fears have been voiced that the site could see traditional pubs hit hard.

Ewloe councillor Alison Halford said residents were concerned about being swamped by pubs in the area and a lack of parking spaces on the site.

She said: “The main concern was that we did not want another pub. We have seven or eight alcohol outlets. It is going to take away from small businesses.

“There was also concern more parking problems would be created in Ewloe. We have a lot of traffic in this area and people are concerned about their health and the quality of the air. Overspill from the pub is a possibility.

“It was also the last green space in Ewloe, people enjoyed using it.”

Planning permission for the pub, which is set to include seating for more than 260 diners as well as a bar and bedsit accommodation, was granted in October.

Nearby pubs include the St David’s Park Hotel, the Boar’s Head, the Crown and Liver and Ewloe Social Club and three off-licences are also in the vicinity.

Kimberley Ellery, licensee of the Fox and Grapes in nearby Hawarden, said more than 30 pubs a week were closing in Wales.

She said: “The pub trade is difficult for everybody. I think it is naughty for the council to give this the go-ahead when there are so many pubs that have closed.

“It is a shame because people love coming to their traditional local pubs.”

Pete Dalzell, operations director for Marston’s Inns and Taverns, said: “We’re extremely excited about our latest pub, which we hope will build a great reputation locally, offering top-quality pub food and an unrivalled selection of drinks, including cask ales from across the country.”