A TOWN council has labelled the proposed refurbishment of a Lake District Inn an ‘overdevelopment’.

Greene King Brewing & Retailing Ltd submitted a planning application to the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) in June to carry out internal and external alterations to the Village Inn on Lake Road in Bowness.

Proposals on the ground floor include a full internal refurbishment of the pub, a new outdoor shelter and bar building as well as general improvements to the outside seating areas.

Following a meeting of their planning sub-committee, Windermere and Bowness Town Council have recommended the proposed redevelopment be refused.

National park planners will have the final say.

The town council labelled the proposals an ‘overdevelopment’ in the ‘heart’ of the conservation area.

Their response to the plans adds: “The design of the proposed wrought iron and glass addition to the north elevation is incongruous and out of keeping with the style of the existing building.

“The timber bar, posts, arbor and lighting are a large overdevelopment in the heart of the conservation area and unsympathetic to the vernacular. There are also biodiversity concerns about the loss of a perfectly healthy tree.”

Alterations to the layout of the first and second floor are also planned to provide the site with 17 rooms to let which will have private bathroom facilities. Currently the site has nine individual apartments.

Planning documents state: “The alterations proposed will ensure that The Village Inn boasts much improved facilities, by making it an even better drinking, dining, and holiday stay experience for both locals and visitors to the town.

“The redevelopment will position The Village Inn as a prime spot for locals and visitors to unwind after exploring the Lake District, and will help to ensure its future growth, and growth of the town by attracting more visitors to the area.”

Previously a ‘major refurbishment’ of the Village Inn took place in 2022 following a six-figure investment project.

As part of this renovation, the bar area received a ‘modern upgrade’ and the kitchen was also refurbished resulting in a new food menu.

Planning documents add the beer garden experienced a ‘complete makeover’ to provide an ‘extensive’ outdoor space for drinking and eating.

This planning application is currently being considered by the LDNPA.