A CLOSED Colchester pub could be turned into homes if plans are approved.

Ramakrishnaiah Muli has applied to Colchester Council for planning permission to convert the Foundry Arms, in Artillery Street in New Town, Colchester, into two two-bed flats.

Each flat would be split over two floors, including a kitchen, toilet and living/dining area downstairs with two bedrooms, a bathroom and en-suite above.

The basement of the property could also be converted into an office or gym area.

The pub is understood to have closed for good earlier this year during the lockdown period.

Earlier this year residents raised £850 to buy a new defibrillator for the nearby Artilleryman pub after the Foundry Arms' closure was announced.

Colchester Civic Society has commented on the application, describing the proposals as a "reasonable scheme".

The group said: "Sadly, public houses come to the end of their lives with monotonous regularity and a new use needs to be found.

"The lack of off-street parking at the site is clearly an issue, as this small neighbourhood experiences great pressure on finding sufficient already.

"This is a pub of some age and it is surely important to retain those original details that create the legacy.

"This building retains the very original sash windows to the upper floor.

"They have extra banding that lends a greater degree of simple ornamentation to a classic 19th century frontage.

"These should naturally be retained and used as a reference point rather than be replaced with something in UPVC."

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The group has also called for the single paned glass to be replaced with a pattern which reflects the earlier pattern in use on the building.

It added: "The Civic Society regards these buildings as neighbourhood assets with strong historical connections that should be maintained as best is possible."

Colchester Council will have the final say on the proposals.

You can view the plans by searching 211552 on Colchester Council's planning portal or click here.