STARS and stripes could be coming to Petersfield with plans for an American-themed bar and restaurant being run up the flagpole by a pub landlord.

Jon Berry, owner of the Queen’s Head in Sheet, is looking to turn the landmark building in Lavant Street which housed Jacob and Hunt auctioneers for decades, into an American craft beer bar and informal dining area.

Jon and two other directors have submitted a planning application for change of use for the vacated salesroom fronting on to Charles Street to the South Downs National Park Authority.

The lease has been agreed with owners Jacobs and Hunt and Jon is hoping for a spring opening for The Charles Street Tap.

If planners give it the go-ahead in the new year, work will start immediately.

Around £100,000 has been earmarked for internal work, including the installation of a kitchen. Original features such as the parquet floors and staircase will be an integral part of the look.

A mezannine floor linking the two storeys is planned. “It’s very exciting,” said Jon. “We feel that there is a gap in Petersfield for something like this.

“American craft ale is very on-trend at the moment too.” He is keen to stress that it won’t be a late night venue, there won’t be live music and it won’t be a diner-style eaterie.