A PUB company says it is in talks with a potential operator for a venue which has been closed for three years.

Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars has submitted a fresh planning application to renovate the Millstone pub, near to Newton-le-Willows railway station, which has been closed for more than three years.

The Star reported in January 2022 after previous plans had been approved for refurbishment of the pub, which were scheduled to start once a new licensee was recruited.

The Mill Lane venue has been listed on the Star Pubs & Bar website for lease and a new "revised" planning application was sent in for the refurbishment and extension of the venue.

Plans say that works will include a new side extension to the left side, from the front of the building with a roof lantern.

There will also be new external seating area to the rear and the car park is to be amended.

The project will also see a part-demolition to the back of the pub and a new extension formed to the kitchen.

Toilets are to be relocated to the first floor and a new dining area is to be created in the existing WC area, with new access to the external seating area.

A portakabin is to be removed from the back and new steps, fences, and planting will be added to the outside area at the rear. 

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A spokesperson from Star Pubs & Bars said they are planning an "extensive refurbishment" of the pub and are in talks with a "potential operator".

They said: “We are planning an extensive refurbishment of The Millstone, Newton-le-Willows as part of which we have just submitted a revised scheme which will see the venue offer customers a premium pub experience with great locally sourced food, exciting drinks, fantastic coffee and weekly pub quizzes to bring the local community together.

“We are talking to a potential operator about bringing the scheme to life.

"More details will be confirmed in due course.”