Opposition grows against plans to demolish The Lion pub in Leavenheath and build homes on site

Revised plans to demolish a closed-down pub in Leavenheath and build new homes on the site have drawn opposition from the parish council, while dozens of residents have also objected.

Concerns have been raised over a planning application to demolish The Lion in Honey Tye, which shut its doors last year, and construct five homes in its place, with villagers worried that the pub could be permanently lost.

An objection sent to Babergh District Council by Cllr Rachel Bellenie, on behalf of Leavenheath Parish Council, said: “This proposal appears to be from an applicant who does not know the village or know what the parishioners’ needs are within the village in terms of development and design.

“This development is not in keeping at all with the village and the parishioners are not favorable of it.”

The parish council also highlighted potential road safety issues, and stated the proposed temporary Vehicle Activated Signs to warn motorists about speeding did not offer a long-term solution to such a development.

A planning statement in support of the proposal said: “It has established that there is no realistic of viable proposition of the building site being used for employment generating uses, whilst residential is the most appropriate use.

“The proposed scheme is considered to be an appropriate and well-designed response to the local context, will provide significant regeneration benefits, and constitute sustainable development.”