A popular Merseyside pub is set to be transformed with newly released plans showing a controversial name change.
The Shrimper in Southport has been shut since the end of last year, with the pub now set to reopen under a new name, The Ribble Arms.
The pub, on Fylde Road, had proved popular with local residents before it's closure.
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The new plans that have been approved by Sefton Council today will see cover added to the outdoor seating along with replacing flooring, furniture, wallpaper and lighting.
The company that own the pub, Star Pubs and bars, is set to spend £164,000 on the refurbishment of the currently closed pub.
The company are also still looking to find someone to manage the pub.
A spokesperson for Star Pubs & Bars said: "We intend to undertake a £164,000 revamp of The Shrimper, renaming it The Ribble Arms to mark its new direction.
"We are currently looking to recruit a new operator to take on the pub on one of our Just Add Talent agreements.
"These offer people the opportunity to run their own pub at a fraction of the start-up cost of taking on a leased or freehold pub. The pubs are run on our managed operator turnover and profit share agreements.
"They are low risk and low cost, making it affordable for would-be entrepreneurs to have their pub. Operators run the business and employ and pay their own staff.
"Star Pubs & Bars pays all other expenses including utility bills, rates, food and beer supply and maintenance costs.
"Turnover and profit are shared between both parties, with no limit on what operators can earn. No specific industry experience is necessary. Anyone interested, can find more at www.starpubs.co.uk or call our recruitment team on 08085 949596.
"We will start work on the revamp once the recruitment process is completed and the new licensee is in place, with a view to reopening the pub as soon as possible."
People have taken to social media to talk about the announced changes.
Derek Drummond said: "Needs a total revamp but shouldn't change name what has the Ribble got to do with that area?"
One man wrote: "DON'T change the name... crazy."
Tracy Leek was in favour of getting rid of the pub altogether: "Knock it down."
Another person disagreed with the proposed name change. He said: "Why call it the Ribble Arms when it’s not in the Ribble Valley? Surely something more Southport/Sefton appropriate would be better."
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