A once-popular pub which has fallen into disrepair and sat empty for five years has been earmarked for flats.

Plans have been put forward to convert the former Hen and Chicks in Luton High Street into 10 one-bed apartments.

Developers want to demolish existing garages and build a first-floor side extension to the landmark property.

Last year, a proposal to turn the building into six flats was withdrawn.

For years the future of the boozer, which was a favourite haunt with locals, has been uncertain.

Built as a farmhouse in 1702, it was converted into an ale house in 1746 and was frequented by brickmakers and agricultural workers in the surrounding areas

As Chatham grew in size, it was a terminus for the bus horse and, later on, the tram.

There was at one point a forge on the side of the building in the heart of the village in Luton Road which burnt down many years ago.

The pub, formally called the Hen and Chickens, became a centre for Luton’s community activities and was popular among locals.

Over the decades most of the once numerous hostelries in Luton, which were used by dockyard workers and servicemen, have closed, with many converted into homes.

When last orders were called in 2019, the brewery tried unsuccessfully to find a new manager.

A decision on the planning application is due by August 15.

If it gets the go-ahead, it could form part of a major facelift for a deprived area in the Towns.

Plans have also been revealed to “rejuvenate” that section of Luton High Street by demolishing old run-down buildings paving the way for a four-storey block of flats, shops and offices.

The developers believe the mixed-use housing scheme, next to the pub, will upgrade the site.

The agents, Directive Planning, describe these premises as “in a state of disrepair, exhibiting broken parts and general deterioration”.

But after new government guidelines were announced earlier this year to “turbocharge” existing brownfield sites in a bid to stop builders concreting over green belt land, the plans changed considerably.

The man behind the scheme is businessman Ali Akpinar, who runs Medway Food Centre.

He wants to get rid of the existing two-storey shop and residence, along with a one-storey shop, and build 13 one-bedroom and 11 two-bedroom self-contained apartments split over four floors.

”The agent’s report to the council’s planning department said: “The proposed development aims to strategically upgrade the site, turning it into a space that is both visually appealing and functional.”

Hector Melendez, director of the London-based company, said his client applicant had gone to great lengths to assess transport links and respect neighbouring properties and the street scene.

While there is no provision for parking, the 24-hour car park in Nelson Terrace is next to the vacant pub and there are spaces for bicycles.

But the application has prompted objections from some residents who feel there was not enough parking in the area and it would cause traffic congestion.

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The report said the aim was to “modernize and rejuvenate Luton High Street, while also acknowledging and mirroring the existing architectural style in the immediate area.

“The proposed development aims to strategically upgrade the site, turning it into a space that is both visually appealing and functional.

“The goal is to correct any existing flaws, ensuring an improved visual appeal for future occupants as well as residents.”

The design includes cream bricks and timber doors.