PLANS have been given the go-ahead to turn a former Kings Worthy fishing tackle shop into the new base for a catering company.

The approval will now see a change at The Rod Box, in London Road, to ‘mixed use’ in planning terms.

It is now set to be occupied by The Little Kitchen Company, a high-end events catering business.

The application also sought permission for new shop signs, and the replacement of an existing timber outbuilding to the rear of the shop. The outbuilding is currently used as storage, but will now become a new office area.

According to the plans, the three-bedroom flat above the shop will not be affected.

A DECISION on plans to build a swimming pool at an Itchen Abbas home has still not been published more than a month after the ‘determination deadline’.

The plans, for Itchen Abbas Grange, were due to either be approved or rejected by the South Downs National Park planning authority by Tuesday, January 8.

The scheme attracted an objection from Itchen Valley Parish Council, which said it went against policy and “may discharge chemically (chlorine) laden water into groundwater affecting the River Itchen European Special Area of Conservation.”

Responding, the Environment Agency did not object, but said the scheme may require an environmental permit.

PLANS have been submitted for refurbishments at a Kings Worthy pub.

The proposals relate to the Cart and Horses – a listed building.

If approved, the pub would get a new entrance lobby, new windows and doors, a new bar and changes to the interior design.

The proposals would also see the exterior signage replaced to include the logos of chain Greene King.

According to the plans, the changes are being made to “ensure the premises’ ongoing commercial viability”.

A planning statement adds: “The Cart and Horses has long played an integral role in the social and economic life of Winchester due to the pub being dated from 1760 and therefore being known for a cosy and traditional atmosphere.

“This proposal reflects our clients desire to reinforce the buildings position to the residents of the area and to customers who will return and, also, recommend the establishment to others thereby increasing its importance to the local economy.”

A decision is not expected before late March.

THE Hampshire Chronicle is always keen to hear local news from Sparsholt, The Worthys, Easton and Littleton. Send details to Michael Seymour at 5 Upper Brook Street, Winchester, SO23 8AL, call 01962 860836 or email michael.seymour@hampshirechronicle.co.uk.