An old Epsom pub which is more than a century old is set to make way for new housing following pushback against plans from residents.

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council’s planning committee approved proposals for The Kings Arms, in East Street, at a meeting on March 14.

The former Young’s public house will be demolished before developers construct two linked four-storey buildings which comprise 21 new flats.

But after letters of notice were sent to neighbouring properties, residents expressed their opposition to the plans.

Some wanted to preserve the old pub which historical maps indicate dates back as far as the 1800s, being previously listed as The Queens Arms in the 1861 census.

Others, meanwhile, were concerned about a potential loss of privacy, construction noise, a lack of parking, as well as its “overbearing and functional” design.

Nikki Cowlard, of Norman Avenue, “strongly” objected to the plans and said: “Although not formally listed [as a] Grade II the building is of some historic and architectural merit, particularly on the street frontage which has a distinctive decorative façade.

“The pub clearly contributes to the character of the town and is a key building in the East Street area, providing a link to the historic development of this road route in and out of the town.”

While developers argue The Kings Arms is of “low historic value”, some residents insist it still has a place in the borough.

Stephen Nelson, of the Epsom and Ewell history and archaeology society, criticised the design of the building, calling it a “very poor design in a bland, square block devoid of any particular character”.

Firle Court resident Mrs J Dessent commented during the consultation period that the loss of the pub “would take away the history of the area”.

“Epsom has already lost a good deal of other licensed premises and this further loss would damage the amenities of the area,” she added.

At first there was an initial proposal for 16 flats before this was increased to 21 in an amended planning application submitted in January.