No planning applications have yet been made for a historical Ewell pub which closed last week sparking fears it may be demolished.

The Organ and Dragon, a Thai restaurant and pub on London Road in Ewell, closed its doors for the last time on July 17.

According to the ex-manager of the pub, which has been serving the Ewell community since the 18th Century, its owner, Punch Taverns, has sold the freehold - sparking concerns that it may be turned into a nightclub, new housing or be torn down. 

Punch Taverns has refused to comment on its plans for the site, but a spokesman for Epsom and Ewell Council said this week that no planning applications have been submitted for it and the current licence for the pub has not been surrendered.

The closure of the pub good has caused upset and worry among residents who said it is a popular community hub.

James Carter said: "It’s a shame. The place was great along with the staff.  Sunday lunch won't be the same."

Terry Burgess agreed: "Very sad indeed.  We have fond memories of attending the folk club there back in the 70s - we even saw a young Jasper Carrot perform there."

Another resident said: "I am shocked by this.  This pub is always popular and serves the Stoneleigh community, and I am lead to believe it is also profitable.

"Many pubs are closing, because they are under used by the community, however this is certainly not the case for this pub."

Jon Howard, spokesman for the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), which supports community pubs and consumer rights, said that between September 2011 and March, 18 pubs across Surrey closed - almost one a week.

He said: "There are a number of issues facing rural pubs closing at a faster rate than city pubs because of the declining numbers in pub-goers and the costs of increasing taxation, alongside supermarkets selling alcohol cheaply.

"In a lot of communities where there is only one pub in the community, losing a pub is a devastating loss as it is an essential meeting place to come together. 

"It is very communal and we oppose any closures which create massive community detriment."