A historic pub in Leicester could make way for student accommodation if plans are approved by the city council.

Under the proposals put forward, the site will be transformed into 25 student flats with a total of 54 bedrooms and will result in an extension to the existing building.

Developers Deckchair Ltd had initially proposed to demolish the pub entirely, although Leicester City Council refused planning permission for this.

Leicester Deputy City Mayor and heritage champion, Councillor Adam Clarke, said: "Although the Black Boy closed as a pub in 2012, the building remains an important part of Leicester's history."

"The Black Boy is protected by our local list of heritage assets - the failure of this appeal not only saves the Black Boy, it demonstrates the credibility of the local list. I am very happy that the Planning Inspectorate has agreed with the council's stance on this. Heritage of this sort should not be lost."

The pub has stood on the site since the 1820s but has fallen into disrepair after it was closed in 2012.

Planning permission for the revised scheme is still outstanding, with a decision likely within the next 3 months.