MAJOR refurbishment works could soon be under way at Aberystwyth’s busiest pub after it withdrew a controversial plan to remove parts of an historic wall.

JD Wetherspoon has decided against the removal of two sections of wall at its Yr Hen Orsaf pub, which sit below two window frames on opposite sides of a wooden doorway situated on the right hand side as you enter the pub from the beer garden.

A planning application for refurbishment works at the pub, housed in the Grade-II listed old train station on Alexandra Road, has been submitted to Ceredigion County Council.

It was reported in the Cambrian News last month that Cllr Jeff Smith was “very concerned” that the removal of walls at the pub would put the “historic fabric” of the building at risk.

But Cllr Ceredig Davies, county council member for Aberystwyth Central ward, told the Cambrian News this week that DV Architects, acting on behalf of JD Wetherspoon Ltd, has revised its plans so the wall in question will remain.

The plans include the replacement and extension of the glazed lobby; the installation of new male and female customer toilets; new booth seating; a new staff room, toilets and changing room; and new flooring and paving and other decorative works.

The work will involve the removal of one of the two ground floor disabled toilets to accommodate more space for the wash up area, and includes improvements to the bar.

The pub will be closed while the renovations are being carried out.

See this week’s south editions for the full story, in shops and online on Wednesday