A historic Ely pub has won planning permission to build a new play area as part of a major refurbishment project.

The Charles Wells Pub Company, which owns the High Flyer, in Newnham Street, applied to East Cambridgeshire District Council in October for permission to build a new play area.

Charles Wells purchased the pub in 2009 before leasing the property to the Orchid Pub Group, which entered administration earlier this year.

The pub has been in temporary management since then but, according to the plans, Charles Wells has a new operator lined up to take over and refurbish the venue.

Planning agent, David Russell Associates, told planning officers: “It will be constructed of wood, with the slides constructed from hard plastic, and finished to the highest standard, with appropriate safety matting below.

“The intention is that the High Flyer will be used by those not only wishing to drink, but also those having a family meal. This will ensure its future viability and its retention.”

Approving the application, planning officer Richard West said: “The proposed play area and extension of the bin storage area are considered necessary to improve the viability of the public house which will allow for the future retention of the community facility.

“The impact of the proposed development on the visual appearance and character of the conservation area has been assessed and it is considered there is not a detrimental impact that would justify a refusal of planning permission.”