Future still uncertain for King's Head in Pulham St Mary

The future of a derelict village pub continues to hang in the balance as a long-running planning row rages on.

People living in Pulham St Mary have called on South Norfolk Council to block the demolition of the King’s Head Inn for a fourth time.

Graham Scott, the landlord, has made several attempts over the last decade to tear down the Grade II-listed building to make way for housing.

His recent bids have caused further frustration among villagers, with some urging the council to put an end to the saga for good.

Clayton Hudson, district councillor for Pulham St Mary, said: “I want to see these frivolous and pointless applications come to an end.

“Maybe the time has come for the council to use the legal mechanisms in its power to acquire the building and see it brought back into use.”

Mr Scott himself has previously sought to have the council purchase the historic building, but this was refused as it could not be demonstrated that a new owner could not make a success of the business.

The building, which dates back to the beginning of the 16th century, ceased operating as a pub nearly two decades ago.

Mr Scott said the business had become “loss-making” and insists that turning the site into housing remains his only viable option.

His most recent failed bid to demolish the building was blocked by the authority two months ago due to there being “no clear and convincing justification” for the scheme.

Nearly 1,000 people have signed a petition in protest against his latest efforts to knock the pub down. However, another delayed application remains in the pipeline, meaning the battle is far from over.