A former frozen food shop is to be transformed into a micro pub after a council approved plans.

The premises, on Burnley Road East in Waterfoot, Rossendale, is currently vacant, and in October, Kenneth Lynch of Serious Brewing Company, applied to Rossendale Council to turn the shop into a micropub.

Once complete, the micropub, which could potentially be called The Whitewell, will offer food following the installation of a cooling system, a small kitchen and preparation area.

The venture aims to create one full time and three part time roles, and is hoped to be open Wednesday to Sunday from 2pm to 10pm, extending to 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

A planning statement submitted alongside the proposals read: “Serious Brewing Company was founded in 2015 and have been brewing real ale in Rochdale for seven years. We are a small family business, owned by husband and wife Ken and Jenny Lynch.

“This property is in an ideal location, on a high street in the town centre.

“A vibrant eating and drinking culture has developed in the nearby Rawtenstall and our research has revealed there is demand for similar venues in Waterfoot.

“As well as talking to locals, we posted our ideas on social media and we have an overwhelmingly positive response.

“We also know that there are many CAMRA members in the area who would welcome, support and promote such an establishment.

“Waterfoot has no micropubs but has the demand which our venue would help to fulfil.

"Many locals currently travel from Waterfoot to Rawtenstall, our venue would provide a place for them to go in Waterfoot and draw others to the area.

“We would add to the variety of businesses on the high street. We envisage people walking or travelling in on public transport and Waterfoot has excellent bus links to surrounding towns.

“In our micropub we will primarily serve our own locally brewed beers alongside other beers from small independent breweries like ourselves, all kept well and served in excellent condition through traditional handpulls.

“Alongside our beer offering we will also have a selection of quality wines and gins, as well as barista coffee and a range of non-alcoholic drinks.

“A limited menu of good quality light meals and snacks will be available. Where possible we will use local and independent suppliers.

“Our aim is to create a venue which will have a welcoming atmosphere, be seen as a community asset, and be sought out by craft beer and real ale enthusiasts both locally and from further afield.

“We have seen similar venues in neighbouring towns add to the vibrancy of the evening economy and create a real attraction to their area.

"We do not intend to play loud recorded music, nor have any TVs nor games machines.”

Eight letters of support were received and only one objection, and plans were approved by the council earlier this week.