A country pub has had plans to introduce an outdoor serving area for its takeaway operation approved by the council.

The Ribchester Arms in Ribchester applied to Ribble Valley Borough Council earlier this year to introduce the ‘outdoor serving hatch’ along with plans to replace the ventilation system in its kitchen.

Pub owners say the introduction of the hatch will improve its takeaway service, particularly at busy times such as the ‘Fish Friday’ offer.

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The counter will provide convenience for customers and passing visitors to easily order and collect food.

A planning statement said: “The Ribchester Arms is a destination inn and restaurant with rooms and located in the small historic village of Ribchester.

“Although well renowned for its classic pub menu served in a restaurant environment, a takeaway food offer is also available.

“The proposal for a food service counter (or outdoor serving hatch) will provide operational improvements to the existing takeaway offer and is ancillary to the existing pub restaurant use.

“When not in use the takeaway food counter will be screened/enclosed and fully secured behind a pair of existing timber vertically closed ‘garage type’ doors.”

Owners have also had plans for a replacement ventilation system approved as part of refurbishment works to the kitchen.

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They said the recent return to relatively ‘normal’ trading conditions has “highlighted the inadequacy of the existing kitchen operation".

A statement said: “The proposals will provide a more open, accessible, and efficient working environment for a successful food operation.”

The council approved the plans subject to conditions, including limiting the takeaway operation’s opening time from 11am to 8pm (8.30pm on Saturdays).