‘Grot spot’ transformation plans approved

Nightclub owner given permission to renovate front of former hotel.

PLANS to transform a town centre “grot spot� have been approved by council planners.

Alterations to the front of the former Inn on the Strand were given the go-ahead by North Devon Council earlier this week.

Work to refurbish the building, boarded up since 2000, began in September and is on-going.

In December, owner Mike Deakin told the Gazette that he was hoping to give a “new look to an old favourite�.

He also added: “We are hoping to carefully and sympathetically refurbish the front of the building in keeping with the 1930s street scene and hope to be able to open a contemporary new bar in the spring.�

The plans were given full planning approval subject to certain conditions imposed to preserve the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.