A LYME Regis pub could be redeveloped to include a new restaurant and an open terrace.

Palmers Brewery wants to hear the public's feedback on its plans to redevelop The Pilot Boat, Bridge Street, before a formal planning application is submitted.

The company is pushing ahead with the plans because it claims the existing rear function room has "reached the end of its life span". The new restaurant would be glass-fronted and could double up as a skittle alley - while letting rooms would also be available at the pub.

Palmers is keen to transform the pub into a "landmark, destination inn" in Lyme Regis.

Jayson Perfect, tenanted trade director for Palmers Brewery, said: "The existing single storey rear function room, which was originally built as a motor vehicle garage, has reached the end of its life span.

"The brewery proposes to replace it with a similar sized building to house a restaurant which will also double up in the evenings as a skittle alley as required. The scheme also proposes a first floor open terrace area and the refurbishment of the original front building to include letting rooms.

"A planning application is due to be submitted shortly after a period of public consultation."

Members of the public are being encouraged to have their say on the proposals before an application is handed over to West Dorset District Council for approval.

After running pubs for many years in Surrey, licensees Steve and Emma Smith worked at Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's River Cottage for five years, as well at The George Inn at Chideock before taking on The Pilot Boat.

A Palmers spokesman added: "The project has been developed in conjunction with existing licensees Steve and Emma Smith to ensure that we create a business that is in tune with the needs of Lyme Regis, locals, returning tourists and first time visitors to west Dorset.

"We believe that this investment is positive for long term employment and tourism in Lyme Regis and will develop even further, Lyme's reputation as one of the go-to destinations in the South West.

"As part of the public consultation we welcome feedback on the proposals."

To comment on the initial proposals, please visit investing-in-the-future-of-lyme-regis.co.uk