A MAJOR bid to extend a popular pub on the outskirts of Sidbury has won the backing of Sidmouth town councillors.

A MAJOR bid to extend a popular pub on the outskirts of Sidbury has won the backing of Sidmouth town councillors.

Owners of the Hare and Hounds want to ‘nearly double’ the existing building in size with a bigger dining area and kitchen and new toilets and staff accommodation.

Altered vehicle access from the B3174 Ottery road and replacement cold rooms also feature in Heartstone Inns’ blueprints.

A temporary marquee at the Putts Corner premises will make way for new structures if plans are successful.

The watering-hole and eatery had to deal with 940 diners in a single Sunday, Sidmouth Town Council Planning Committee members heard when they discussed the bid last week. They welcomed plans but warned against any further growth.

“This is a business looking to the future, building on success and addressing problems we’ve identified before - such as the marquee,” said Councillor David Barratt. “The planned addition is almost as much as the current building. Access to the car park is going to be vastly better towards Ottery,” he said.

“It will result in an even more quality establishment,” said Cllr Ian McKenzie Edwards.

“This is a success story,” added Cllr Graham Liverton, “I agree with this, but no more. We’re going into the realms of fantasy if we did do more.”

“It is the limit of things,” said Cllr John Dyson.

Cllr Mary Jolly added: “I’m fully in agreement with this, but, am also in agreement that enough is enough.”

“Hopefully this is as much as they want and need,” said Cllr Peter Sullivan. “They are providing a major income to that area- it gives a lot of employment opportunities.”

The district council will decide the fate of plans.