Plans have emerged to re-open an empty “eyesore” boozer in Eltham.

The Dutch House in Sidcup Road could be split into a new pub with a builders’ merchants next door and flats above, according to new proposals.

The pub was granted extra protection from developers following controversial attempts by McDonald’s to turn the old building into a drive-through.

Greenwich Council deemed it an asset of community value following campaigns to save the boozer from being taken over by the fast-food giants.

According to plans submitted this week by FBM Enterprises, the pub would be roughly halved, with the rest of the building used as a builder merchant complete with a yard outside.

“This proposal overcomes the previous reasons for refusal, as a community asset is retained in the form of a smaller pub restaurant, which will be much more viable than the previous larger pub”, the developer said, “This will be much more of a local pub than the previous Harvester type of operation.”

The boozer was first eyed up by fast-food giants to turn it into a 24-hour McDonald’s drive-through in 2013 but the application was refused after community outrage.

In 2014 the boozer was granted special status as an asset of community value following a campaign, supported by MP Clive Efford, to stop McDonald’s moving in.

Plans explain that builders’ merchants currently based in Old Kent Road will soon be subject to a compulsory purchase order, and the Dutch House fits their bill in terms of size for a new home.

The developer said the current size of the pub means it is no longer financially viable to run.

If approved, the boozer would sell food during the day and night but primarily be used during the evenings and weekends, with the builders’ merchant next door operating throughout the day.

According to planning documents: “The existing building is now extremely run down and has suffered very badly from vandalism. It is now an eyesore that reflects very badly on the area.

“This proposal will restore the exterior of the building and bring both it and the site back to life. It will also bring vitality and employment to the area and as such it will be an asset.”

The plans are currently being assessed by officers at Greenwich Council.