PLANS to relocate children's play equipment at a pub in Rainhill look set for approval.

The scheme for Victoria Hotel, on Warrington Road, will come before the planning committee at its meeting on Tuesday.

The site is located within the Rainhill conservation area.

The Star reported in July how work had started on the £800,000 refurbishment of the landmark pub.

Owners say the investment at The Victoria on Warrington Road will aim to transform it into a “great quality family-friendly pub”.

They added it will be renamed the Cookhouse Pub & Carvery to mark its new direction.

The public house is located it junction with Victoria Street, where there is a parking area to the rear.

The application seeks planning permission for the relocation of previously approved children's play equipment, formation of new covered pergola structure and the extension to a previously approved entrance porch to create a covered external area.

There are currently works being undertaken at the building with the applicant’s agent stating that they are implementing the works which have previously been granted planning permission.

Officers have recommended the scheme be approved subject to conditions.

Six letters of objection have been received on the grounds including the alterations being unsympathetic, the alterations being out of character with the surroundings and detracting from the significance of designated heritage assets including Rainhill Station, Skew Bridge and Rainhill conservation area, as well as the plans being harmful to the building’s heritage.

Meanwhile, one letter of support has been received which highlights looking forward to a fresh start for the pub, along with the changes being similar to other public houses in the area that have been updated.

READ> Victoria pub to undergo £800,000 trasnformation

Council officers say the proposal to renovate the public house is acceptable, adding the design and appearance of the proposed external alterations are appropriate and would not harm the character and appearance of the conservation area.

They also say the proposed development is not deemed to harm residential amenity provided that relevant conditions are attached and, therefore, ensuring an "acceptable impact".