A plan to knock down a historic pub and replace it with a building inspired by “fake history” has been thrown out.

The former Cricketers pub in London Road, built in the 1950s, was bought by Chatsworth Land.

The developers have applied three times to Merton Council to demolish the pub and turn it into 16 flats.

The first two applications were rejected by Merton Council’s planning committee and last week, the developer had its appeals rejected by the Government’s planning inspector.

It followed an eight-hour planning hearing in January at Merton Civic Centre.

The inspector concluded that both the “contemporary” proposal and the development based on “fake history” would “be detrimental to the character and appearance” of the surrounding conservation area.

He was very critical of the impact of the “formidable block” which would “conflict with the Vestry Hall in views from Cricket Green” and present a “blocky” aspect to the old fire station.

Sandra Vogel, from Mitcham Cricket Green and Heritage, said: “This is great news.

“Getting this result is down to the hard work of everyone involved and the level of support which has been evident throughout from all those who wrote in, spoke about or attended meetings about the proposals.

“We will now work with Merton Council and the owners of both the fire station and the Cricketers to find a way forward for the future of this island site that benefits the whole community.”