A POPULAR pub in Warley is in line for a big money revamp.

The Horse and Groom on Warley Road, Warley, will get an extension at the back to house a new kitchen, and existed living quarters will be converted into toilets.

Bike racks will be installed too along with nine additional parking spaces, taking car park numbers up to 39.

Additional seating inside and out will increase from the current number of 24, which a design statement semt to the council says is vital for the long term viability of the pub.

James Broker, 45, who enjoys a pint there, said: “I love this place, like many other people in the area, it’ll be even better after this work. It has to survive, it’s got so much character and history.”

A planning statement, submitted to the council from surveyors on behalf of Mr Akin Hunter, went on to say the pub is attractive on the exterior, but it’s poor internal design is unsuitable in the current market, and wouldn’t be able to survive if it wasn’t changed.

It adds: “The existing business is constrained by the internal layout of the site, restricting any appropriate eating accommodation.

“The ability to offer a full menu is crucial to the future success of the Horse and Groom, which needs to be able to compete with other public houses in Brentwood. It is no secret that the pub industry is struggling and as a result many are closing.”

New lighting and planting will also be part of improvement works to the outside.

An application for the works was originally refused in 2004 due to the effect the work would have on the surrounding green belt - but an appeal later reversed the decision.