An appeal has been lodged against the rejection of a scheme to turn part of a popular, independent Italian delicatessen into a four-bedroom home.

Two months ago, St Albans district council turned down a bid by Alan Oakley for a change of use from shops to residential.

His scheme is centred upon one-half of Buongiorno Italia, the delicatessen on Lattimore Road.

Alan is the new landlord of part of the shop, which was expanded by delicatessen owner Tony Picciuto.

Reacting to news of the appeal on the deli’s Facebook page Tony said: “Well, we knew it was going to happen. Once again I kindly ask for your [customers’] support.

“When we had just the small shop we extended it about 10 years ago, invested money and made it look much better than it was.

“The site was a mess and we were the ones who improved it to a manner that would enhance the locally listed status, and also the wider conservation area.”