Plans for the refurbishment of an historic city pub have been approved by planners.

The Saracen’s Head in The Tything will get a new side extension, toilets and an extended bar area.

Black Country Ales, which took over the pub last year, faced backlash after unveiling plans to carry out work on the Grade II listed building.

Worcester Civic Society complained there was “inadequate detail” in the planning application and that the heritage of the building had “not been recognised or considered”.

Neighbours raised concerns that some of the Saracen’s Head’s original features would be ripped out and urged Black Country Ales to “respect the fabric of the building”.

The brewery responded by saying it was not in the habit of ruining pubs but “restoring pubs to their former glory and enabling them to carry on trading for a long time to come”, and promised to come back with updated plans.

The company’s website lists dozens of real ale-type pubs across the midlands that it has refurbished.

Approving the plans for the Saracen’s Head, city planners said the amended proposals were “of a sensitive design” and incorporated some of the pub’s original features.

Worcester City Council’s conservation officer initially objected to the proposal, criticising its lack of detail.

But after two site visits and further discussions with the brewery, which resulted in the retention of features including an original window and a new location being found for a fire escape, the objection was withdrawn.

Planners said that “following the submission of revised plans reducing the footprint of the proposed extension, porch area and ensuring that the existing side courtyard area remains open, the proposals no longer result in a detrimental impact on heritage assets”.

The Saracen’s Head closed in October after being bought by Black Country Ales and will reopen following the renovation work.

The owners have said features like the function room and skittle alley will remain, and while it won’t be a “food venue as such”, traditional bar snacks like cobs and pork pies will be available.