A HISTORIC Whitchurch Pub will soon have a new lick of paint after refurbishment plans were approved by Shropshire Council.

The Red Cow, in Pepper Street, is a Grade II listed building and is around 400 years old, but the current fixtures and fittings have been descried as 'tired'.

The planned refurbishments included for the historic pub included the fitting of new internal doors, a refit of the toilets, new fixed seating along with new gates and timber fencing to contain a bin store within the existing rear yard.

In his approval report, planning officer Ben Williscroft agreed that the pub was in need of refurbishment, and all repairs would be kept in line with the pub's listed status.

"It is evident that the existing internal fabric is somewhat tired, where refurbishment would be desirable in order to retain the viability of the public house and retaining it in use," said Mr Williscroft.

"While much of the historic timber framing is evident, much of the interior fixtures and fittings have been altered over the years with modern late 20th century units, including the doors and principal bar, which has somewhat diluted its significance.

"The doors for example have been largely replaced with modern twentieth century units, where the principal Victorian panelled front door is all that remains along with some inter-war panelled doors, such as one in the gents, which has some significance where they shall be retained and overhauled.

"It is also evident that the electrics are also outdated, where new power supplies and sockets are required."

Mr Williscroft added that the overall works are considered 'low impact' and should not damage the building if a refurbishment is required again further on down the line.

"Many of these fixings are deemed to be reversible, where they can be easily be removed and replaced at a later date without detriment to the remaining historic fabric of significance," he said.

"Other works include new decoration, carpet and seating furniture, both internal and external, which does not normally require Listed Building Consent, where the refurbishment of the existing bar tops is noted.

"Overall the Heritage Impact Assessment matrix is noted where the works are considered to have low impact."