A vacant Yaxley pub could be turned into an Indian restaurant and takeaway under new plans, which have sparked concerns.
The Cherry Tree Inn, in Old Norwich Road, could be changed into Indian Soul Restaurant and Takeaway if plans put forward to Mid Suffolk District Council go ahead.
Under the proposals, extraction ventilation would need to be installed, as would 3D illuminated signage.
In a planning statement by Besthorpe-based N H Building Design, the applicant said: “The ground-floor layout of the building will be used for the business, with residential living on the first floor to remain.”
The pub closed in 2022, and, although a tenant was found, the deal to take it on fell through. In August last year, it was put up for sale.
The site has 10 car parking spaces but there are concerns by some of the village’s residents that this would not be enough.
In a written statement, one villager said: “Parking has always been an issue for this site. However, when it was used as a pub, it was less of an issue as driving to a pub for drinks is less common.
“With the introduction of a restaurant and takeaway, parking will be more of a requirement for visitors.
“I struggle to see how the parking currently available can accommodate more than three or four customers, which will lead to cars being parked in surrounding estates or roads.”
The developer said the new venture, if agreed, would bring employment and breathe new life into a building that is “starting to become run down and is spoiling the surrounding area”.
The general consultation on the plans ends on April 12.
