The Blake Hotel, on the corner of Blake Street and Daniel Hill Street, Walkley, is empty and officers had recommended approval for the five one-bedroomed flats and three two-bedroomed flats. They said the plan would bring the building back into use and retain its facade.

But there was widespread disapproval for the plan from councillors at Sheffield Council's West and North planning board, who unanimously rejected the scheme.

Coun Veronica Hardstaff, chair of the Walkley Forum, said: "Blake Street has parking on either side of the road. It makes it extremely difficult to get up or down. I would prefer to see a smaller development."

Planners received seven letters of objection to the plan, citing parking.

Coun John Hesketh said The Blake lay in the Birkendale Conservation Area and the flats would negatively impact "on this beautiful jewel in Sheffield's architectural heritage".

James Birkett, who owns the thriving Sheaf View Inn on Gleadless Road, has spoken of his frustration in being thwarted in his intention to return The Blake Hotel to a traditional local.

Former owners Enterprise Inns included a covenant in the deeds preventing the building from being used as a pub again in the future.

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