A HAMPSHIRE pub is about to gain a new kitchen as part of a major facelift costing almost £300,000.

A raft of improvements will be made to the Borough Arms in Avenue Road, Lymington, which will close on January 27 to allow the work.

Plans for a single-storey extension housing the new-look kitchen have been approved by New Forest District Council after sparking only three objections.

A similar application was rejected last year amid fears over late-night noise but the council says the concerns have now been addressed.

Watering Hole Feature at the Borough Arms pub in Lymington - Owners Debbie and Carl Millward.Watering Hole Feature at the Borough Arms pub in Lymington - Owners Debbie and Carl Millward.

According to a report produced by planning officers the rear beer garden will become more enclosed.

It adds: “It is intended to place a set of double gates at the north western corner of the site, which will provide more security to the car park and stop it being used as a through route by the general public, as happens at present.”

Owned by Admiral Taverns the pub is run by Carl and Debbie Millward.

Debbie listed some of the proposed improvements, saying the interior and exterior of the building would be refurbished. The pub would be provided with new toilets as part of the £280,000 scheme and the car park would be resurfaced.

“The refurbishment will make it more attractive, both inside and out,” she said.

Carl and Debbie are hoping to re-open the popular watering hole on February 18.