More than 2,500 people have signed a petition against “disrespectful” plans to turn a former pub into a shisha lounge.

They are opposed to proposals that could see the new bar open in High Street, Pinner, on the site which formerly operated as The Victory Pub and then Italian restaurant Zizzi’s.

The petition, launched by those living in the neighbouring block of flats, Kingsbridge House, argues permitting a shisha lounge in this location would have a detrimental impact on residents’ health and the area’s character.

It describes the proposals as “dangerous and inappropriate” given the harmful effect of shisha smoking and the influence normalising the practice could have on young people.

“Many other London boroughs have banned shisha lounges on health concerns alone and we believe Pinner residents deserve the same protection,” it reads.

Signatories are also concerned that the plans would damage the character of Pinner, particularly given the site is a listed building.

The petition states: “We feel the addition and adaption of the site is not in keeping with the look and feel of the high street and ultimately disrespectful to the history and heritage of the site.

“Pinner is known for its family friendly atmosphere and village feel and we believe this application to be in direct contravention of these things that Pinner has strived hard to maintain.”

The applicant, Victory Lounge Ltd, has been contacted for comment.