ONE of Warrington’s beloved historic pubs is planning a refurb in a bid to ‘secure its commercial future’.

Plans have been submitted to Warrington Borough Council’s planning department seeking listed building consent for Red Lion in Stockton Heath.

An internal refurbishment to the licensed areas is proposed for the London Road venue, as well as external ‘dilapidation’ works and the erection of an events tipi.

Permission is required for the replacement and repair of existing windows and the removal and rebuilding of existing chimneys due to the building being Grade II-listed, dating back to around 1800.

Applicant Daniel Thwaites PLC states: “The property currently is trading well, but in an effort to secure the commercial future of the business, the applicant is looking to make the property more attractive to its existing and potential clientele, while promoting its external space for a wider range of activities.

“At the same time, the applicant recognises that some elements of the building are a little tired and has therefore proposed a package of external fabric repairs.

“The proposed works are considered minor in nature and do not affect any elements of the listing, and certainly will not materially affect the appearance or setting of the building itself.”

Work proposed includes new floor finishes to various areas comprising carpet, vinyl or tiling and refreshed wall and ceiling finishes of wallpaper, timber boarding, paint or tiling.

There would be new or refurbished fixed seating, new lighting, a new external seating booth and visual upgrades to the outdoor area.

The installation of a timber trellis with festoon lighting is sought, as well as more lighting to an existing pergola.

Existing chimney stacks would be rebuilt in period brickwork and work to the roof is planned, while existing single-glazed windows would be replaced with new double-glazed units to match existing styles.

Any rotten or defective gutters and fascias would be replaced on a like-for-like basis.

Planning documents add: “It should be noted that the proposed dilapidation works are to be implemented on a like-for-like basis, so as not to materially affect the appearance or character of the building.

“The interior refurbishment is simply the replacement of tired finishes, so no alterations are proposed to the structure or internal layout.

“Externally, the grounds are to benefit from additional paved areas, removable side panels for the existing free-standing shelters and the provision of a tipi in a central location in which to stage various events.”