An old and “derelict” Sutton High Street pub is set to make way for an apartment block after being approved by Sutton Council. 

Property developer, Mizen, has been granted planning permission to knock down the old Prince Regent pub following a committee meeting on October 7. 

Located between Sainsbury’s and Sutton Common train station, the six-storey mixed-use development, will comprise of 30 new apartments over ground-floor retail space, together with associated car and cycling parking. 

The news may come as a surprise to some, as earlier applications for the site were turned down as they were "too tall, poorly designed, and lacked affordable housing."

MORE: Sutton pub will NOT be turned into flats as application refused

The Prince Regent has been at the centre of significant interest - both from developers and members of the public - since it shut during 2015.

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Formerly known as The Cricketers, the pub was adored by many punters on Sutton High Street who were sad to see it shut and lose its appeal. It was then de-listed from the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest.

To mark the pub's heritage, developers have decided to name the apartment block 'Prince Regent'. 

The development has been designed by south London based architects, Harp & Harp, who were also responsible for the design of the new Sutton Green café. 

The retail unit will be on the ground floor, whilst the 30 one, two and three-bed residential dwellings will be located on the upper floors, all with private balconies set back from the high street.

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Bernard Tansey, Chairman at Mizen said:  “It is great news that Sutton Council has approved our plans to deliver our vision for the redevelopment of this historic site.

"It has been vacant and empty for several years and will provide much needed new homes and commercial spaces to the area. 

"We have been developing in Sutton as part of the major redevelopment Master Plan announced by the local council in recent years, especially along the high street.

"We are very proud to continue playing our role in helping to transform it, for both workers and residents, adding to the diversity and energy of what the bustling high street has started to become once again."

Mizen expects the new homes will most likely appeal to young professionals and first-time buyers, with help to buy also expected to be available. 

Work at 342 – 346 High Street is scheduled to begin early 2021.