PLANS have been submitted to refurbish a historic pub in Shaldon, with the work being described as essential to securing its future as a public house.

Heavitree Brewery PLC has submitted an application to Teignbridge Council for refurbishment works at The London Inn, a two-storey Grade II listed building dating from the early 19th century.

The application, reference 26/01554/FUL, includes proposals to upgrade the pub’s existing commercial kitchen to meet the demands of the business.

According to the accompanying heritage, design and flood statement, the work would include new kitchen equipment, work surfaces and storage facilities.

The proposals also include a replacement mechanical air-intake and extraction system outside the building, subject to planning approval and Listed Building Consent.

A new external fire escape is also proposed within the existing rear courtyard.

This would replace the current escape stair located inside a residential flat, which currently passes through the commercial kitchen before exiting the building.

The statement says the existing arrangement is considered unsafe for residents and would not meet current building regulations if it were being proposed today.

The applicant says the improvements are needed to provide a ‘fit-for-purpose’ commercial kitchen and support the ongoing and future trade of the London Inn.

It adds that the works are considered essential to ‘safeguard the longevity of the building as a public house serving the wider community’.

Teignbridge Council is expected to make a decision on the application by December 1.

Residents can view the full plans and submit comments through the council’s planning portal by searching for 26/01554/FUL.