A planning application has been lodged to turn a Grade II listed restaurant into flats and build a further eight in the car park.

Under the plans, The British Queen, in Wanstead, will be converted into four flats and a block of eight more will be built within a completely new block next door.

The Grade II listed building, in New Wanstead, converted to a restaurant from a pub in 2010 after being empty for six months.

When it was converted four years ago, residents had spoken of their relief as it was claimed noise at the pub was excessive late at night.

Residents living in the road had a mixed reaction to plans.

Kathleen Moore, 65, is worried about a lack of parking on the road, which she claims will be exacerbated by the new block of flats.

She said: “Parking down the road can be horrendous at times, especially in rush hour with Lady of Lourdes Primary School nearby.

“There will be less noise as there were a number of late-night parties at the restaurant but I hope the new building of the block of flats fits in with the area.”

Andy Bishop, 55, has lived on the road for around 30 years, and welcomed the new build.

He said: “We need new housing, it does seem like the new block is being squeezed in, but I understand new flats are needed in the area.

“Parking could be an issue but I am happy with the fact the restaurant is being turned into flats because I remember when it was a pub and it was very noisy late at night.”