A pub in Hitchin could be set for huge changes, including the construction of a supermarket, after plans were submitted to North Herts Council.

A planning application launched by Greene King would see work done both inside and out at The Anchor Inn pub on Cambridge Road.

As part of the proposal, land at the rear of the building currently occupied by hedges, grass and a play area, would be turned into shop and warehouse, "occupied by Sainsburys and functioning as a Sainsbury’s Local", according to a planning statement submitted by Walsingham Planning.

"The store will assist in meeting the day-to-day needs of local residents of the Purwell and Walsworth neighbourhoods," the application adds.

The Comet: Drawings showing the what the supermarket next to The Anchor would look like.Drawings showing the what the supermarket next to The Anchor would look like. (Image: North Herts Council/Walsingham Planning Ltd)

As for The Anchor itself, the application describes the pub as "tired and dated and in need of investment", with big changes planned, including the reconfiguration of the garden and the demolition of a number of outbuildings, to make way for a garden pergola providing covered outdoor seating, and four timber huts for private and family outdoor dining.

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A new patio and lawn will be laid, as well as the installation of lighting and fresh doors and windows in the conservatory, allowing access to the garden.

There will be changes to the car park too, with "a total of 37 spaces, including three disabled bays, two parent and child spaces and four EV charging bays" provided, while "nine new lighting columns will be installed to ensure the comprehensive illumination of the car park".

The Comet: Proposed site layout for The Anchor on Cambridge Road.Proposed site layout for The Anchor on Cambridge Road. (Image: North Herts Council/Walsingham Planning Ltd)

As for wildlife and foliage, the application continued: "The scheme will also provide further biodiversity enhancements in the form of a hedgehog box, two bat boxes, two bird boxes and a hibernacula.

"Landscaping will be focused around the perimeter of the site and will include the planting of six new trees alongside other vegetation to replace those that need to be removed.

"The proposed scheme of soft landscaping will soften and enhance the appearance of the site and using native species will provide ecological benefits."

To view the application in full, visit north-herts.gov.uk/online-applications.