Plans have been lodged to refurbish and remodel a coach house at a historic hotel into a bistro. 

If approved, Caistor Hall would have its northeastern corner converted into a 12-table restaurant which would include a new courtyard, terrace, stage, bar and toilets.

This is because the existing coach house cannot provide the existing services without repair and updating, according to the applicant.

How the coach house looks nowHow the coach house looks now (Image: South Norfolk Council) How it would look if plans are approvedHow it would look if plans are approved (Image: South Norfolk Council) Because of the hall's historical importance - a former stately home dating back to the late 1700s - key architectural features such as stable doors and antique windows will be kept and integrated into the bistro's design. 

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The plans include designs for a new terrace, courtyard and events spaceThe plans include designs for a new terrace, courtyard and event space (Image: South Norfolk Council) External alterations have also been "carefully considered" and would be kept to a minimum, with modern lighting and cables to be removed.

A design statement for the proposal says: "These plans would provide the former coach house with a long-term viable use which would support the main hotel business while also maintaining much of the appearance and form of the original coach house.

"The proposals have therefore been developed referencing the rich architectural context but with a slight contemporary approach."