Greene King publishes a first look at the refurbishment plans for a Hitchin pub.

The Anchor was subject to a controversy in March when plans were approved to open a Sainsbury's Local on vacant land next to the pub.

Greene King's plans to construct a Sainsbury's Local at the rear of The Anchor in Cambridge Road were given the green light by North Herts Council despite plenty of nearby residents opposing the plans, with one of the more than 30 comments describing the development as "unfeasible and ridiculous".

Although there have been no further updates on the Sainsbury's build, Greene King have published pictures and information about the upcoming refurbishments of the pub.

CGI of the new pub front at The Anchor.CGI of the new pub front at The Anchor. (Image: Greene King) A statement on Greene King's website read: "It will undergo an extensive refurbishment and become the jewel of the crown at this great location.

"We are planning an investment that will transform the pub, creating the best pub garden in the area, which will see an extensive covered pergola created, complete with light, heating and TVs that will allow all year-round trading opportunities."

CGI of the refurbished pub garden.CGI of the refurbished pub garden. (Image: Greene King) CGI of the refurbished pub garden.CGI of the refurbished pub garden. (Image: Greene King) The pub chain also highlighted the pub's demographic suggesting that "80 per cent of residents" come from a "premium and mid-market" representation which was regarded as a "real positive" to relaunch the pub with its "franchise offer".

Currently it is described as "early days" for the plans, but Greene King wish to reopen The Anchor as one of its "hive pubs" that serves food, a wide range of drinks and hosts regular live entertainment including live sport and karaoke.

A spokesperson for Greene King added: “We have exciting plans to invest in and transform The Anchor as part of a wider development that will see a new convenience store also open next to the pub.

"We hope to have more good news to share on these plans next year."