A pub that has been closed in a coastal town for the past few years could be set for a new lease of life.
Change of use plans have been submitted that could see The Tudor Rose public house in Lowestoft converted into a shop, and also extended to feature a house of multiple occupancy (HMO).
A scheme has been lodged with East Suffolk Council for the former pub - previously New House and Rose Bowl - on St Peters Street in Lowestoft.
The plans, which are currently awaiting decision, centre around: "Change of use from a public house to a convenience store/shop."
The application adds: "Property was already acting as a HMO when purchased in June 2021 with three sitting tenants, we are now applying for retrospective permission."
The scheme has been lodged by agents ML Daws ltd, on behalf of applicant Mr Asanka Rathnayaka.
A design and access statement said that the planning application "is for a change of use from a public house to a shop including an extension and retrospective permission for a house of multiple occupancy (HMO)."
It adds: "The former use as a public house appears unsustainable with many public houses closing.
"The plot already has three spaces for customers to park with no immediate shops in proximity.
"The five rooms the property have are currently full which shows a need for this type of accommodation in the area.
"The size of the building and its location would make it unsuitable for one dwelling.
"The proposal fulfils local needs."
With the external appearance described as being "much the same with the addition of a shop frontage," it adds: "The proposal will make use of the empty commercial space providing jobs to the local area.
"The HMO fulfils local demands for affordable housing as well as providing accommodation for the marine college opposite."
With the pub sold in June 2021 for £250,000 through Lowestoft-based Langwrights Independent Estate Agents, a decision on its future is likely to be made in the coming weeks.
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