THE owners of a historic pub have been refused permission to give it a major renovation.

Pubs chain Brakspear submitted plans to South Oxfordshire District Council for a wide-ranging overhaul of the Grade II-listed Chequers Inn at Berrick Salome near Wallingford.

The company wanted to swap around the dining area and bar and build a new toilet in the cellar.

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However the plan also included a new external staircase to the rear of the building which would involve creating a new door at first floor level, and the council said this would 'interrupt the pattern of fenestration' (windows).

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The staircase would also require the removal of the original stone walling below a window, and overall the council said these plans would spoil the historic character of the building.

The pub, which dates from the early 18th century, was listed in 1963 because of its architectural merits.

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Brakspear can now appeal against the council's decision or go back to the drawing board.

Members of public can see the plans at southoxon.gov.uk using application reference number P19/S0358/FUL