LANDLORDS at a historic Worcester pub could face enforcement action after beginning the refurbishment of their premises without planning permission.

The owners of The Green Man, in The Tything - believed to date back to the 1800s - asked the city council for permission to renovate its ground floor and create a bar and restaurant on its first floor, which is currently residential accommodation.

But they have begun work on the Grade II Listed building, before the planning committee meets to consider the application on Thursday.

So far, the first floor has been completely removed, a new kitchen installed, original windows have been replaced, original walls demolished and surviving walls covered in plaster board.

In his report to the committee, the head of development services, Stuart McNidder, describes the works as "detrimental to the architectural and historic interest" of the building and recommends the applications are refused.

Paul O'Connor, principal planning officer, said that the committee could choose to implement formal enforcement action that would require the applicants to restore the building.

In the most extreme instance, the applicants would face criminal prosecution for altering the listed building without permission.

However, Mr O'Connor said they were co-operating with the council.

Confirmed

"The applicant has acknowledged the works are unauthorised and that action needs to be taken to get to a suitable situation," he added.

Garry Jones, joint business partner and licensee at the pub, confirmed that he was aware of the problems and was in "full co-operation" with the council to rectify them.

"Basically, I think we had an agent who didn't know what he was doing," said Mr Jones.

"I'm looking to open in about May, with a traditional Victorian feel."