Behind the scenes look at Red Lion pub revamp ahead of reopening today

Improvements have been made to Red Lion in Stockton Heath, with the pub having been closed for more than a week.

The popular and historic pub says it has missed its customers during this time, and it is keen to welcome people back in from midday.

Plans for the refurb were submitted to Warrington Borough Council in February and were approved in March.

Documents submitted in support of the planning application stated that the London Road business was ‘trading well’, with these alterations in a bid to ‘secure its future’.

Approval was given for an internal refurbishment, as well as external ‘dilapidation’ works and the erection of an events tipi.

Permission was required for the replacement and repair of existing windows and the removal and rebuilding of existing chimneys due to the building being Grade II-listed, dating back to around 1800.

Applicant Daniel Thwaites PLC states: “The property currently is trading well, but in an effort to secure the commercial future of the business, the applicant is looking to make the property more attractive to its existing and potential clientele, while promoting its external space for a wider range of activities.

“At the same time, the applicant recognises that some elements of the building are a little tired and has therefore proposed a package of external fabric repairs.

“The proposed works are considered minor in nature and do not affect any elements of the listing, and certainly will not materially affect the appearance or setting of the building itself.”

Work proposed includes new floor finishes to various areas comprising carpet, vinyl or tiling and refreshed wall and ceiling finishes of wallpaper, timber boarding, paint or tiling.

There will be new or refurbished fixed seating, new lighting, a new external seating booth and visual upgrades to the outdoor area.

The installation of a timber trellis with festoon lighting was sought, as well as more lighting to an existing pergola.