Proposals to build a motel at a Suffolk landmark which sits next to the major route between Ipswich and Norwich are to be discussed at a meeting.

The plans have been put forward at The Magpie Inn, which is on the A140 in Stonham Parva, near Stowmarket.

The developer wants to build a 25-bedroom motel which would be constructed on land to the rear of the pub.

Stonham Parva Parish Council has objected to the proposals, citing several concerns, including over the design and layout.

Councillors are worried that potential new signs for the motel would detract from the well-known existing pub sign which stretches across the busy road.

The council said the village was classed in planning documents as a “countryside village” where developments of this nature should not be permitted.

A conservation officer for Mid Suffolk District Council has objected to the proposals arguing the motel would “harm” the pub’s heritage, which dates back to the 15th Century.

The proposals follows the dismissal at an appeal in 2012 of another outline planning application for a 25-bedroom motel at the pub.

In the appeal a planning inspector dismissed the proposals due to the “adverse” effect the motel building would have on the pub and the surrounding countryside.

The current application puts forward a motel building which would be “significantly” different in terms of appearance and its scale, according to the planning documents.

The building would be almost two metres shorter than the previous plans. There would also be a “significant” improvement in the appearance of building, if the revised plans go ahead.

Planning bosses at Mid Suffolk have recommended that outline permission is granted. Councillors will meet tomorrow at 9.30am to discuss the proposals.