The owner of a closed village pub has launched his third bid to see it knocked down. 

Graham Scott, the landlord of the King's Head Inn in Pulham St Mary, has lodged plans for its demolition with South Norfolk Council. 

Mr Scott has made two failed attempts over the last decade to have parts of the Grade II listed building torn down to make way for new housing. 

His latest effort in 2019 sought to see the pub purchased by the council. However, this request was refused as it could not be demonstrated that a new owner could not make a success of the business, which closed in 2007.

Eastern Daily Press: Landlord Graham Scott stokes up the fire at the King's Head in 2002Landlord Graham Scott stokes up the fire at the King's Head in 2002 (Image: Denise Bradley)READ MORE: Opening date for historic seaside pub announced

Mr Scott said: "My former pub, a family-run business, closed over 17 years ago as it became loss-making.

"The King's Head is not an asset of community value."

He has previously said the planning stalemate has left him facing 'virtual financial ruin', as an agreement about the future of the site remains to be reached with South Norfolk Council.

The building, which dates back to the beginning of the 16th century, is located in the centre of the village. 

Eastern Daily Press: Mr Scott inside the old pub in 2009Mr Scott inside the old pub in 2009 (Image: Denise Bradley)South Norfolk councillor Clayton Hudson said planning officers had been "very clear" in their reasons for blocking demolition in previous years. These had included fears about the loss of a listed building.

Mr Hudson added: "The latest application will create unnecessary harm to the setting of adjacent listed buildings and its place in the centre of the village conservation area.

"Mr Scott has not submitted enough information to demonstrate that the building could not be brought back into use as a public house and has never marketed it for sale at a realistic price.

"He needs to stop wasting everybody's time and offer the former pub for sale to the community to allow them to restore the centre of the village for the benefit of everyone."

South Norfolk Council will consider whether to approve the proposals in due course.