PLANS for the demolition of the Punch Bowl Inn on Roman Road have been approved.

The historic pub will make way for 10 new three bedroom semi-detached properties despite several objections from residents and councillors.

Sudell councillor Paul Browne was one of those opposed to the plans on the grounds that the new houses will not suit the area.

He said: “I voted against the demolition because the houses will not look right in that environment and I didn’t want to see the pub pulled down, but as it isn’t a listed building nothing can stop them really.”

Cllr Browne said the development will also cause problems on the roads.

He said: “They’re not the right type of houses and the highways will be an absolute disgrace.

“They are already very busy and even though the council are planning to propose double yellow lines on Roman Road, people will still park there.”

The new homes will have private gardens at the front and back, two dedicated parking bays and five additional visitor bays will also be supplied.

The pub has been closed since March after landlady Jean Powell’s retirement.