PLANS to refurbish Shaldon’s historic London Inn have moved a step forward after the parish council raised no objection to the proposed improvements.

Heavitree Brewery PLC, which owns the Grade II listed pub, has submitted a planning application to Teignbridge Council seeking permission to upgrade its commercial kitchen.

The proposals include installing new kitchen equipment, work surfaces and storage facilities to bring the kitchen up to the standard needed to support the pub’s ongoing trade.

London Inn, Shaldon
The existing pub kitchen (Heavitree Brewery PLC)

Plans also include a replacement mechanical air-intake and extraction system outside the building, subject to planning approval and Listed Building Consent.

A new external fire escape staircase is proposed within the existing rear courtyard, replacing the current escape route.

According to a heritage, design and flood statement submitted with the application, the existing arrangement requires occupants to exit through the commercial kitchen.

The applicant describes this escape route as unsafe for residents, adding that it would not meet current building regulations if it were proposed today.

The statement says the refurbishment is needed to provide a ‘fit-for-purpose’ commercial kitchen capable of meeting the demands of the successful pub business.

It adds that the proposed works are essential to ‘safeguard the longevity of the building as a public house serving the wider community’.

The London Inn dates from the early 19th century and is a Grade II listed building, meaning it is recognised nationally.

Its owner, Exeter-based Heavitree Brewery PLC, is one of the South West’s oldest pub companies, tracing its origins back to 1790.

The parish council’s decision to raise no objection represents a step forward for the proposals, although it does not amount to planning permission.

Teignbridge Council will make the final decision on the application, which is expected by December 1.

The plans can be viewed, and comments submitted, through the council’s planning portal by searching for application reference ‘26/01554/FUL’.