AN historic Ely pub has seen plans to expand its dining and kitchen areas met with concern from neighbours.

The Prince Albert, in Silver Street, is owned by Greene King but recently taken on by new licensees who are keen to expand their menu and attract new diners into the pub.

Under plans submitted to East Cambridgeshire District Council, a disused building at the rear of the pub would be converted into an expanded dining area and kitchen facilities, with a new side entrance servicing the dining area.

Refurbishment works inside the award-winning pub have already taken place, with much of the furniture restored and a new layout introduced.

Despite a willingness to invest further funds in the redevelopment however, the new owners’ plans have been met with opposition from some neighbours, who say the extension could cause a noise nuisance.

In consultation with the council, David Palmer said: “The architectural design of the extension with its mixed pitch and flat infill roofs, its lack of sympathy and incompatibility with the existing buildings, its bulk and massing, and its detailing and materials is an ill-considered dog’s breakfast and will do nothing to enhance the appearance and environment.”

Andrew and Naomi Church added: “The size and scale of this development will result in unacceptably high levels of noise, light and potential odour pollution on both us and our neighbours and will result in a loss of residential amenity.”

A decision on the plans is expected within the next eight weeks. To view the plans, or to have a say, visit www.eastcambs.gov.uk