A WOOLSTON pub is set to be extended and will also turn its play barn into added dining space.

The Mascrat Manor on Juniper Lane is set to build an extension between its restaurant and Wacky Warehouse, which will be converted into a dining area.

An application from brewery Greene King and owners Spirit Pub Company for the extension and the removal of conditions relating to the use of the Wacky Warehouse area as a play barn has been approved by Warrington Borough Council’s planning department.

The pub, which was built in the late 1990s, will increase its restaurant floorspace by 20m sq and will also house amusements in the new family dining area.

The planning application stated: “The original planning application was approved under a different planning context and, most importantly, at a time when play barn areas were newly-introduced in the UK to meet the needs and trends of that period.

“This is no longer the case and Greene King now seeks to modernise the Mascrat Manor premises to reflect the decline in the demand from their customers for play barn areas and the subsequent increase for larger family dining facilities.

“Greene King does not seek to fully remove the playing-related activities but to provide a larger family dining room which will also include an amusement area.

“The proposal will help to balance the high demand for dining services in the restaurant with the need to retain the attractive family-friendly, relaxed and informal place for the customers and patrons.”