The major refurbishment of a landmark pub is set to get underway despite the objections of several villagers.

People living close to the Feilden’s Arms in Mellor Brook say proposals to refurbish the pub will lead to problems with noise and issues with parking.

One person even claimed the attractiveness of the area would be negatively impacted by the plans to tidy up and modernise the public house.

Lancashire Telegraph:

An imagine of how to pub will look

At the end of last year Star Pubs & Bars - owned by beer giant Heineken - announced it planned to spend £400,000 on revamping the pub.

The project would see the existing conservatory ripped down and replaced with a modern orangery.

The outdoor seating area is also set for expansion with the investment also allowing for work to take place inside the pub, creating an open plan drinking-dining area.

For the work to take place, four car parking spaces would be lost, thought it is not considered this will result in any significant issues.

It is understood the Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars was waiting for a new full-time tenant to come on board before commencing the works.

Further concerns were raised by villagers about the pub’s opening hours and the noise that would come with the additional new tables, however planners explained in their decision making these were issues outside of their remit.

Documents read: “Some of the issues raised relate to licencing including hours and provision of live music and therefore are beyond the remit of planning. 

“Noise nuisance is a consideration and activity at the premises could result in an increase, however, based on the existing use and restrictions this would not be so significant as to warrant a refusal, especially as the pub is sited within a settlement adjacent to other commercial establishments.

“It is considered the increased use of the outside seating area would not significantly contribute to noise disturbance to neighbouring residents, taking into account the existing use of the site and as such the proposal is recommended accordingly.”

Planners also agreed the extensions would be appropriate in terms of siting, design and the materials proposed to be used.

The documents continue: “ The increase in covers internally is not a material planning consideration.

“Externally we can only consider what has been applied for and can be controlled.

"There is no requirement for the pub to have a set amount of car parking provision and the proposed extension replaces an existing of a similar size and therefore would not require any additional on-site parking. 

“The loss of four spaces is acceptable taking into account the existing use of the premises and the small scale changes arising from this proposal.”

Chris Newsham, Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager said: “We want to see The Feilden’s Arms become both a buzzing hub of the village and attract customers and tourists from further afield.

“The investment will enhance its appeal massively and the new bedrooms meet the needs both of discerning tourists and business users such as visitors to the nearby BAE systems.

“The Feilden’s Arms offers a great opportunity for someone who wants to be part of the community and run a real village pub in the stunning Ribble Valley with the benefit of three income streams: food, drink and rooms.”