Plans to convert a Grade II-listed house into a restaurant will set a “terrible precedent”, according to an MP.

MP Stephen McPartland met with Stevenage residents last week to discuss a planning application submitted to Stevenage Borough Council (SBC) last month. The plans call for 11 High Street to be converted into a 30-seater bistro restaurant called On the Green.

Mr McPartland said: “This development is causing real concern with residents and would be better suited on the commercial section of Stevenage Old Town. Converting residential properties into restaurants will set a terrible precedent across the rest of the town and residents are angry they have not been consulted properly.”

The application is due to be discussed by SBC’s planning committee next month.