Little Wenlock pub to get new lease of life

A Shropshire village pub is set to gain a new lease of life after being granted permission to build a restaurant and accommodation.

The Huntsman Inn in Little Wenlock, near Telford, was bought by Shropshire businessman Peter Morris, who hopes to turn the business into a thriving community hub after being granted planning permission by Telford & Wrekin Council's plans board last night.

Mr Morris aims to build a two-storey extension to provide a restaurant with accommodation above, as well as building a holiday let cottage and three dwellings for rental.

Councillors said they were pleased to see someone taking on the business at a time when 19 pubs were closing each week.

"This really is the jewel in the crown of Little Wenlock and I think the applicant is a very brave man, investing this money in a pub," Councillor Roy Picken said.