Urgent calls for action were made almost year ago over The Crown Hotel on the High Street in Lowestoft, which dates back to the 17th Century.

Lowestoft MP Jess Asato outside The Crown Hotel in Lowestoft in March last year. Picture: Jess Asato's office (Image: Jess Asato's office)

Having been closed since last orders were called in 2009, Lowestoft MP Jess Asato, council officials, historians, community groups and stakeholders all expressed concerns in March last year over the rundown state that the Grade II listed building has been left in on the historic high street.

Now, it has emerged that the prominent building is in the spotlight once more after "extensive unauthorised alterations" have taken place.

The Crown Hotel on the High Street in Lowestoft, which dates back to the 17th Century. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

A listed building enforcement notice has been served by East Suffolk Council to the owner of the building located at 150 High Street in Lowestoft as works have been undertaken that breach listed building control.

The Crown Hotel on the High Street in Lowestoft, which dates back to the 17th Century. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

The notice states: "It is considered that the unauthorised works cause harm to the architectural and historic significance of the listed building."

Concerned that the unauthorised works had taken place, Ms Asato said she would continue "to press for action to protect this community asset".

Alterations to listed buildings, whether internal or external, require listed building consent.

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