THE owners of a closed village pub which was declared a community asset two years ago have been given permission to build a restaurant extension in order to cater for weddings.

Villagers were successful in having the centuries-old Yew Tree Inn in Clifford Mesne near Newent declared a community asset two years ago amid fears it could be converted into a house.

Meadow Leisure Ltd, which later bought the property, pledged to upgrade and reopen it as a ‘family friendly pub’ after winning planning permission last year to convert part of it into two holiday lets.

And now as part of the upgrade, which is currently under way, they have won further permission to enlarge the restaurant.

They are also building a single storey extension at the back of the building to access the pub, relocating the toilets and kitchen and providing balcony seating on the first floor.

Villagers launched the Support Our Yew Tree (SOYT) campaign at the start of 2017 when the owners at the time said they would be selling up.

It was granted community asset status by the Forest Council in June 2017, which heard there was “strong community determination” to keep it open and “considerable support” for a community purchase and running it as a community enterprise.

SOYT secretary Tim Fewell said when the pub was still trading: “Village pubs are closing all over the country, but we don’t want to see it go. It’s been part of village life for centuries and it’s important to many residents that we help keep it open.

“It’s very welcoming to families, is a great place for walkers rambling on May Hill and hosts various village groups.”

When news came of a buyer, the campaign said it would not oppose the purchase if it was reopened.

A report to Forest planners on behalf of Meadow Leisure said: “May Hill is a magnet for the tourist trade, either day trippers by car, walkers, cyclists, and this proposed facility will provide a welcome addition to the local area.”