Plans for a new restaurant on the site of a former Conservative club have been approved.

Manor House, an 18th century listed building in High Street, Wanstead, was more recently occupied by the Allied Irish Bank, which closed the branch a year ago.

Wanstead resident Mark Foster is now set to open a restaurant in the building, which has a bust of Winston Churchill outside, and has vowed to preserve its character.

Despite some residents raising concerns over noise, councillors approved the proposal on Monday.
Ward councillor Cllr Paul Canal said: “It is a lovely building and the only way that buildings like this are going to survive is if establishments like this open and preserve them.

“A lot of money has gone into the refurbishment of the interior and I think it is brilliant news.

“The owner is going to serve a mix of British and European food and it will be open for breakfast, coffees, lunch and dinner.

“It is refreshing to see a part of east London which won’t be home to another kebab or fried chicken shop.”

The proposed opening hours of the restaurant are 8am to 11pm.