Plans could see former Fenland restaurant return to its pub roots

A former Chinese restaurant could be returned to its origins as a pub if plans for its conversion get the go-ahead.

Mr R Foreman, c/o Old Market, Wisbech, has applied to convert the restaurant most recently known as the Mama Tree at Ring's End, before previously being call the Oriental Garden and prior to that the Fisherman's Haunt.

A design and heritage statement drawn up on Mr Foreman's behalf by Peter Humphrey Associates in support of the application claims the move would bring the currently vacant site back into use.

It also points out that permission was granted in 2019 for part of the site as a dwelling adding the residential accommodation on the first floor would be retained.

The statement says the aim is to change the building's use from restaurant to a pub with takeaway to the front and a DIY store tot he rear of the building.

It adds the proposal would also see the store selling essentials such as bread, mile and newspapers for local residents.

Part of the site to the rear will used for the storage of aggregates, gravel and sand while the remainder will be parking for the pub and takeaway as well as an external seating area.

The statement argues the site is in a sustainable location, within walking distance of Ring's End and Guyhirn.

Adding: "These proposals seek to make good use of a vacant building/site which will be beneficial to the local community. This Design and Access Statement has been produced to ensure that a high quality development is produced in accordance with the guidelines laid down in the government design advice, and more importantly that the proposed dwelling respects the local context that it will integrate with.

"There are some external alterations required as part of this application. The building has been extended and altered multiple times over the years and the addition of the proposed windows/doors will not be to any detriment to the existing building.

"It is proposed to utilise the existing access from March Road and make improvements as necessary. There is adequate space for delivery vehicles to enter and turn on site safely as well as adequate parking/turning space for visitors to the public house/takeaway and store."