PLANS have been submitted to transform a former pub into a boutique hotel and restaurant.

The White Hart in West Mersea High Street could be transformed with a new seating and drinking area, kitchen and reception on the ground floor.

The first floor will have four en-suite hotel rooms with an extra room on the second floor.

The application said: “The building has been vacant for some time and it is important the building is brought back into beneficial use.

“The property is one of the focal points in the centre of the village. West Mersea is recognised as having a tourism function and returning a hotel use to this property will help to reinvigorate and sustain the district centre.”

Colchester Council will have the final say.

Parking for ten cars will be created.

There could be a slight impact on heritage but it would enhance the area.

The report said: “The visual impact upon this part of the village centre is limited but entirely positive in that it will re-invigorate the redundant pub into an active social hub and also a village resource for its tourist and visitor numbers.”

Developers would have to take into consideration noise levels so neighbours are not disturbed.

The report said: “This is an important opportunity to revitalise a long-standing property asset within West Mersea that is prominent in the street scene and capable of reintroducing a facility of benefit to the wider community.

“This is a variation on a previously permitted scheme which was more substantial in nature. The overall appearance of the building in the street scene will be improved.”