A PUB in a Worcestershire village is expected to have plans to extend its dining area accepted at a council meeting next week, despite neighbours' concerns.

The Talbot in Main Road, Kempsey, is applying for an extension onto the existing restaurant at the back of the pub.

However, on Wednesday, January 3, the Malvern Hills District Council planners will have to mull over concerns about the impact the the proposed 58-square metre extension would have on the character of the grade II listed building and whether the proposal is in accordance with the development plans.

There have also been concerns about the impact the extended restaurant would have on parking and neighbouring residential properties.

Although the proposed extension, which would be built on land currently used by the pub as an outdoor patio area, would be closer to nearby residential buildings, the outbuilding at the back of the premises is not in residential use.

If the plans are given the go-ahead a further covered patio area made from stained softwood with a polycarbonate roofing would be built at the back of the pub along with a covered pergola and a fenced and gated yard.

Despite concerns, case officer Andrew Moody considers the plans to be sympathetic to the character and appearance of the pub because the design will match that of the existing building.

Although one resident has made an objection to the plans. Mr Moody has recommended that planning permission be granted because the objection does not relate to the impact upon the character of the building.

The Highway Authority has not objected to the plans because they believe the exisiting car parking area is sufficient, while the committee is awaiting responses from Kempsey Parish Council and the Malvern Hills District Council environment team.

A decision will be made at the meeting, which takes place at 6pm in Priory Lodge Hall, Avenue Road, Malvern.

The existing single-storey restaurant at the back of the building was granted planning permission in 1992.