PLANS to breathe new life into a pub which has fallen into disrepair have been submitted to Durham County Council.

Edward Milbank, of Barningham and Holgate Estate, has put forward plans to regenerate The Milbank Arms, in Barningham, Teesdale.

A design and access statement describes the pub as being “in a state of disrepair” which is “not able to support itself commercially” as it currently does not sell any real ales or cask beer and cannot provide accommodation or serve food.

The plans would include altering the Grade II listed building to accommodate an open space for drinking and dining as well as eight en-suite bedrooms for guests.

Mr Milbank also hopes to provide a space for functions and events in Barningham Park's Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden, which lies opposite the pub.

The vacant two-acre plot was used as a tree and shrub garden until 2015 and would see an existing barn extended to cater for large parties.

Mr Milbank said he also hoped the renovation would help support the village's church from pub visitors.

To view the plans visit publicaccess.durham.gov.uk and search for DM/17/03066/FPA