The landlord of a pub which is a ‘haven for real ale’ has asked the council for permission build a single-storey extension at the front of the building.

Mr King, from the Red Lion in Earby, applied to Pendle Council in August seeking to develop a single storey extension with a pitched roof, and has also proposed to amend the existing garage by removing the garage door and replacing it with a single door.

Mr King took over the Red Lion in November 2016, and transformed it from a failing business into a venue which now employs eight permanent members of staff and six casual staff, as well as one apprentice.

The Red Lion has now become a haven for real ale and has also become a community hub, hosting regular functions, quizzes, fundraising events and beer and rock festivals.

During lockdown, the pub offered takeaway and delivery to customers and following its re-opening, operated a table service as required, which has continued to the present day.

A planning statement submitted with the application reads: “The public house is entirely sustainable utilising the local supply chain in terms of beers and wines for the pub supporting local businesses.

“The pub remains an extremely popular venue and the expansion will provide extra seating for customers ensuring the viability of the business and the operation of the venue as a community hub.

“The proposal is also of an appropriate scale for the area and the building and is a high-quality design.

“The extension will also ensure that a valuable community facility is retained for the future.”

The proposed development is in accordance with the relevant policies of the Pendle Core Strategy and the National Planning Policy Framework.

No comments or objections have been submitted from the public and Lancashire County Council’s Highways team has also raised no objections.

Pendle Council will make a decision on whether to approve the plans in due course.