Ex-Surrey Tavern pub in Norwich could become cafe and flat

James Ewles has put in change of use plans to Norwich City Council for the ex-Surrey Tavern building in Surrey Street.

It used to trade as the Surrey Tavern from 1851 until 2016.

The business changed into The Surrey Kitchen and Bar, which is currently closed, around January 2018.

If approved, the first floor which currently includes commercial kitchens, would be turned into a one-bedroom flat with a new separate access, expanding the current size of residential accommodation on that floor.

The Surrey Kitchen and Bar venue in Surrey Street, Norwich, which used to be the Surrey Tavern, and could become a new cafe and flat. Picture: Sophie Wyllie (Image: Sophie Wyllie)

The design and access statement said: "The proposed development will enable this property to grow a new sustainable life, retaining both residential and commercial uses.

"The existing residential use will become much more useable from its current small status.

"The existing commercial use can easily be contained within the two storeys below.

"City centre living is most desirable for young and elderly people as all local facilities are nearby within walking distance, with no need for a car."

It added the cafe would employ six staff and would be able to serve up to 55 customers on 16 tables at a time.

The business would serve breakfast, cooked lunches, sandwiches, cakes and snacks, Monday to Sunday.

Richard Dixon, pub protection officer for Norwich and District branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). Picture: Richard Dixon (Image: Richard Dixon)

Richard Dixon, pub protection officer for Norwich and District branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra), said: "In the current climate it is difficult to trade but Camra would like to see it stay as a pub for people to pop into for a drink.

"There are so many of these cafes popping up but how many of them will last?"

Plans were submitted by developers to convert part of the three-storey building into housing five years ago.