PLANS have been submitted to turn a former pub and Italian restaurant into two homes and a motorhome rental and dog grooming business.

The Horns Inn in Little Leigh, which was more recently operated as Bella Napoli Ristorante and the Marco Marco Pizzeria Ristorante, has been empty since the business ceased operating in 2014.

Since that time, the building has fallen into a state of disrepair and been subjected to vandalism, stripping it of anything of value.

The design and access statement says: "The applicant seeks a change of use for the building and grounds to allow conversion of the building into two four-bedroom dwellings and use of the land in connection with the businesses operated by him and his partner."

Northwich Guardian:

The applicant, Paul Alvarez, is a builder who has undertaken a great deal of construction work in south Cheshire, mainly extensions but also one off houses.

The statement goes on to say: "As Covid slowed the construction business, he has expanded his own enjoyment of motorhome holidays into a business.

"He now operates nine motor homes for hire under the name Unleashed Motorhome Hire.

The business is presently operated out of rented premises in Wincham and the applicant, having sold his home to finance this project, is presently living in a rented home in Pickmere.

The derelict pub/restaurant converted to a home with its extensive grounds, established parking and access to the A49 will provide a home and a business centre in one location."

The applicant's partner operates a mobile dog grooming business under the name Piggles Pad Dog Grooming. 

The application includes construction of a premises in the south western part of the site to support the motorhome business, (maintenance and turn around space under cover, workshop, and office). Part of this building would be assigned to the dog grooming business.

A statement added: "The applicant understands the historical importance of the building and that the finished look of the building must maintain that link with its past.

"He is also aware that this site lies within the Green Belt and that any development must be appropriate.

"Additionally he is aware of the prominent location of this site and the visual impact that any development will have.

"At the same time he believes there is sometimes opportunity to put sympathetic new design alongside older traditional structures."

The plans can be read on Cheshire West and Chester planning application portal using reference: 21/05112/FUL.