Plans to knock down a historic pub have been abandoned and its owners have instead applied to convert the building into flats.

The former Cricketers pub, in London Road, Mitcham, built in the 1950s, was bought by Chatsworth Land after it ceased trading in 2010.

The developers, who have had three applications to demolish the building rejected by Merton Council, have now applied to convert the existing building into seven self-contained flats.

In a statement from the application, the developer argued the impact on the conservation area will be minimal, as the principal concern raised with previous applications.

But, it said, none of the apartments will contribute towards the council's affordable housing policy.

The plan states: "It is quite clear that the proposal for seven small flats in this location is much needed and will make a modest, but important contribution towards meeting local housing needs in Mitcham."

Tony Burton, of the Mitcham Cricket Green Community Heritage group, said: "We welcome the fact that the idea of demolishing the building has now been withdrawn.

"We are delighted that the ideas of demolition have finally been laid to rest."

He added: "We are concerned, however, that the future of that building and indeed, the site, should be something for community use rather than for private housing."

See the plans on the council’s website at merton.gov.uk using the code 13/P1077.