PLANS to transform Warrington's 'oldest pub' have been agreed.

The Black Horse, on Old Liverpool Road, dates back to the early 1600s.

But for the past 18 months, it has been covered in tarpaulin due to damage to the building.

Now plans have been agreed to restore much of the exterior of the building.

Document submitted to the council says it opened in 1632 as a coaching inn and claims to be Warrington's oldest pub. The Barley Mow dates back to the 1500s but was set up as an inn.

Developers say the hope the pub will act as a tourist attraction.

It was formally listed in 1975.

The documents added: "The new proposals aim to retain as much of the building’s original character as possible, in order to protect the heritage assets of the building.

"However, with a building of this nature it is imperative that repairs are undertaken in order to make the building safe and habitable once more.

"The proposals endeavour to restore the building back to its former glory.

In the 1800s

In the 1800s

"Loyal patrons are already eagerly awaiting the newest refurbishment to this locally loved public house, particularly given the number of pubs closing due to the knock-on effects of the pandemic which the UK has suffered this year.

"The proposal has been designed with the existing historical building in mind. All elements of the works have been designed to be sympathetic to the existing character of the building, whilst improving the overall aesthetics of the building an its current state."

"We aim to be respectful to the existing characters as well as compliment and showcase them as a feature."

Among the legends of the Black Horse is that it is haunted by a 'crawling man'. He was seen by a gatekeeper on the nearby Sankey Canal, crawling on the street.