A pub chain hoping to open a new venue in Norbury is bemused by Croydon Council’s decision to block a committee hearing on its application, despite overwhelming public approval of the plan.

Antic’s proposal to open a pub in Norbury Mews has received 155 letters of support, and only one objection, since it was lodged in April.

But the chain has been told by a council planning officer that issues with the design means the application will be rejected outright – and those 155 letters of support would not be considered when assessing any new application.

Anthony Thomas, Antic’s founder, said: “It does seem peculiar. In principle they seem to be supportive. It’s a slight difference of opinion, but that’s why we thought it should go to committee.

“It’s about democracy. One hundred and fifty-five people took the time to write in.

“You would think the council would take the time to listen to them.”

Antic would appeal the decision before making another application, Mr Thomas said.

A council spokesman said: “We want to work with the applicant to resolve the issues with the planning application, and have recommended they engage with the council’s pre-application service to progress this.”

Antic operates more than 30 pubs across London.