It has been closed for more than a year.

Now The Bull in Hellesdon could be closer to opening its doors once more - but under a new name.

Ei Publican Partnerships, formerly Enterprise Inns, have said they are in talks with 'an experienced operator' to take on management of the pub on Reepham Road.

But after a planning application was lodged for new signage, they confirmed the name would change to The Chestnut Tree as part of the plans to reopen.

The pub has been closed since February 2017, less than a year after the latest landlord took over.

John Bunkell was appointed as landlord of the Bull in June 2016 but he left after a dispute between him and members of staff over the festive period could not be resolved.

In a turbulent history the pub also closed for periods in 2011 and 2014.

Chair of Hellesdon Parish Council Shelagh Gurney said they intent to mount a campaign to save the name of the Bull.

She said: 'There has been no community or neighbourhood consultation to our knowledge. However we are appalled to learn that there appears to be the intention to rename this pub and call it Chestnut Tree.

'This pub has been called the Bull since the year dot. We locally call the roundabout the Bull roundabout, the shops, the Bull shops.

'This building is at the centre of Hellesdon and our community. It was identified as a building of importance in our recently adopted local neighbourhood plan, and received mention as such.

'My councillors at parish level are really upset about this proposal and the lack of consultation and communication from the owner, Enterprise Inns.

'We hope the residents of Hellesdon will support us by writing to Enterprise Inns based in Solihull.'

A spokesperson for Ei Publican Partnerships said: 'We are in discussions with an experienced operator who is interested in taking on the pub under the new name of The Chestnut Tree.

'We are exploring options around a joint investment plan and would like to reassure the local community we are working hard to reopen the pub as soon as possible.'