The Queen’s Head pub in Erwarton could become home as change of use application submitted to West Suffolk Council

A Suffolk pub could be transformed into a home, despite concerns from members of public, after a change of use application was submitted.

The Queen's Head in Erwarton, nine miles from Ipswich in the Shotley peninsula, closed its doors in 2009 and has not traded since.

The first and second-floor of the property is already used as a home but new plans, submitted to Babergh and Mid Suffolk Council at the start of March, could see the ground floor also approved for residential use.

These plans propose no external or internal works to the building, with a separate Listed Building Consent or Planning Permission application needed for alterations if a change of use is granted.

The application states that a year-long marketing campaign was carried out for the property, with the possibility of retention for the site for employment purposes being fully explored.

This comes as a member of public who is part of the 'Save the Erwarton Queen' committee group has submitted an objection against the proposal.

They said: "We have had regular meetings and updates and there is a strong committee and many people who are supporting that committee with the aim of buying and opening up our pub again.

"We, as a community, want to try and save this pub. Please give us the chance. If you grant this application you take away the only chance we have of reopening this pub. Too many pubs are closing," they added.