A PUB is looking improve its outdoor area to 'give a fresh new look' and is also planning further improvements as part of a £250,000 refurbishment.

Plans have been submitted to build a new pergola at the Britannia Inn in Oswaldtwistle.

The proposals for the outdoor area have been submitted to Hyndburn Council by Thwaites brewery and will be decided on by the planning committee.

Bosses at the brewery said this is the start of plans for further refurbishments to the pub.

Local councillor Glen Harrison said running a pub has become a 'poisoned chalice' at times and hopes investments will see the business flourish.

This comes as the Haslingden Old Road venue is also set to undergo a change of management in the near future.

Thwaites bosses estimated in total £250,000 will be spent on refurbishment and improvements, starting with the outdoor work.

Andrew Buchanan, Thwaites director of pubs and brewing, said: "We have submitted plans for the Britannia as we would like to make improvements to the pub.

“The outdoor area is getting more popular, so we want to enhance that space by introducing a pergola.

“We are planning further investment through a refurbishment of the inside of the building to give the pub a fresh new look.

“We think the improvements will be a welcome addition and we hope the council will agree when they discuss the proposal.”

The garden feature would provided a shaded walkway and sitting area and be held up by vertical posts.

The plans will see new timber and full height glass doors installed to the rear of the pub.

New lighting would also be installed to the outdoor area as part of the work.

The hardwood decking outdoor area would feature a number of tables and chairs, and would have a timber finish.

Cllr Glen Harrison, who represents St Oswalds on Hyndburn Council, said he would welcome the investment into the area.

He said: "Running a pub used to be sought after but sometimes it has become a bit of a poisoned chalice.

"It's become quite difficult to run a public house.

"Because of its rural setting a lot of people would go to The Britannia for something to eat or drink.

"Hopefully the investment will raise the profile of the pub and help bring more customers in.

"I would welcome any investment, I just hope that it pays dividends in the tills and to the business."

A decision will be made on the pergola plans by the Hyndburn planning committee in the near future.