A 17th century pub is set to undergo major refurbishment which could lead to up to 40 jobs being created.

The Aspinall Arms pub in Mitton has been closed since autumn 2012 when landlord Simon Forster, who had been at the pub in Mitton Road since 2002, decided to move on.

The plans, which have been submitted to Ribble Valley Council by Brunning and Price Ltd, include a proposal to refurbish the interior, add an extension and to move the focus away from live music and on to dining.

The function rooms of the building will also be moved to face the River Ribble as part of the redevelopment.

Duncan Lockhead, of Brunning and Price Ltd, said: “We hope to reopen the pub by the end of this year and it will be a boost to the local economy.

“We aim to improve the interior and make it a welcoming place to visit.

“We have been successful with other pubs in various parts of the country and we are hoping that we will do the same with the Aspinall Arms.

“There are no main rooms facing the river which we thought was very odd so one of the main aims to change that.”

Claire Daniels, who lives in Whalley, said: “It’s a shame that it has been closed for almost a year but it will only be a good thing for Mitton and the surrounding area when it reopens.

“I hope work will keep the character.”