An application to convert part of the White Pheasant in Lenwade, about 11 miles north-west of Norwich, emerged earlier this year.

The house in multiple occupation (HMO) proposal has prompted objections from locals who argue the village lacks the infrastructure to cope with an increase in population.

People living in the picturesque village, which sits on the banks of the River Wensum, have also voiced concerns over who could eventually be housed at the site.

White Pheasant, formerly known as Lenwade House Hotel (Image: Archant)

This is not the first time the White Pheasant has hit the headlines, as it has had a turbulent recent history.

Formerly known as the Lenwade House Hotel, the venue closed in January 2020 amid financial difficulties, leaving staff without jobs and couples who had paid wedding deposits out of pocket.

The site later changed hands before being bought by chef and publican Dean Critoph in spring 2021.

Mr Critoph has been involved with a number of Norfolk hospitality businesses including the Parson Woodforde in Weston Longville, the Fox and Hounds in Lyng and the Ratcatchers in Cawston.

He spent........

© Eastern Daily Press