A DERELICT village pub which dates back to the 19th century looks set to be transformed into a large home and holiday let.

Business was last conducted at the Grade II listed Talbot Hotel in Chipping in 2004, with the building standing empty ever since.

Earlier this year a planning application was lodged the Ribble Valley Borough Council outlining a plan to demolish part of the building in order to turn it into a five-bedroom house, with a two-bed holiday let to be developed in the former coach house.

Planners, who will gather next week to discuss the proposal, have been advised to approve the scheme, which would also see three more homes created in the pub’s old barn.

One letter of support has been received by a resident living in the village, with the Parish Council also saying in a statement they were in favour of the scheme – hoping that the works would "improve the visual amenity of the area and prevent further deterioration of the buildings".

Planning documents read: “It is proposed to use the hotel as a five-bedroomed dwelling and a two-bedroomed holiday let to the southern end of the building in the later coach house element.

“The Barn is proposed to be converted into two three-bedroomed dwellings and one two-bedroomed dwellinghouse.”

The proposed development will retain the existing built form of both buildings with external changes kept to a minimum particularly on the front, if approved.

Several previous planning applications have been filed, approved and unfulfilled in recent years.

In conclusion, planners have said: “It is accepted the proposal would not lead to significant harm to the heritage asset and there would be some public benefits with the retention of the buildings and new uses proposed.

“Subject to conditions the scheme would be acceptable with regard to the public benefit and importance and weight to the duty at Section 66 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.”

The picturesque village of Chipping, popular with walkers, is located in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and boasts several pubs, cafes and independent shops.