Opinions are divided on the latest plans for the historic Cock and Bottle pub.

The debate hinges on whether the Grade II-listed pub in Barkerend Road, which has lain empty since February 2011, should be altered to allow it to re-open as a restaurant, even if this means losing some of its historic internal features.

Owner Aftab Ali, who wants to turn the building into a restaurant, has applied to remove the wall between the main bar and a snug, fit three new sash windows and a flue.

The matter is due to be discussed by the Bradford Area Planning Panel on Wednesday.

So far, 23 members of the public have written to planners to make their views known – and most of them are in favour of the redevelopment.

Eighteen people say they are in support of the scheme, arguing the landmark building is currently an eyesore and needs renovating.

But others object, saying the pub’s historic snug should be protected. Those objecting include English Heritage, the Victorian Society and the Campaign for Real Ale. Mr Ali has already been given planning permission to make alterations at the site, but heritage campaigners were unhappy with the decision and the matter is set to be considered by a judicial review.

This new application is designed to provide more detail and justify why the work is necessary, the planners’ report says.