Plans have been submitted for a significant refurbishment of a Grade II listed pub in Knowle.

Applicant Mitchells & Butlers Retail Ltd applied to Solihull Council for the refurb of The Red Lion in High Street earlier this week.

The Red Lion dates back to the 17th century and has been extended and rebuilt at various points over the years.

The pub and restaurant chain's application to the authority says the planned refurb includes the refurbishment of the kitchen, mid height drinks area, bar servery area, glass wash, vertical seating area, snug, dining areas, main entrance lobby and toilets.

In a planning statement included with the application agents for the application, JTS Partnership LLP, write: "The vast majority (of proposed refurbishment) do not require either planning permission or listed building consent."

The statement says some areas that may need Solihull planners permission include:

• New fixed seating in mid-height drinks area
• Installation of picket gate to unused entrance at vertical seating area
• New parquet timber floor for the main entrance lobby
• Installation of a 'jumbrella' and posts and festoon lighting in external seating area

The statement adds: "All of the internal, and most of the external, changes impact modern fixtures and fittings and do not impact the historical importance, or significance, of the listed building

"This statement has identified those features of the building which contribute to its architectural and historical significance.

"It has described the proposals and assessed the potential impacts.

"It demonstrates that no harm will be caused to the significance of the building or the conservation area."

A consultation is now underway with a closing date for submissions of February 20.