A CONTROVERSIAL planning application from pub chain JD Wetherspoon to change the former Browns Hotel building in Tavistock has been withdrawn.

The chain bought the hotel and restaurant on West Street in June, 2014, and three months later submitted an application for ground floor extension to enlarge customer area and proposed internal alterations.

A spokesperson for Wetherspoon said: 'The plans were amended as problems arose with our proposed use of the remaining open courtyard where our scheme indicates external seating, smoking area and refuse store.'

The hotel, a former 17th century coaching inn, is a Listed building and one of Tavistock's oldest licensed premises, which was called The Queen's Hotel.

John Taylor, managing director of Wessex Heritage, had previously voiced his concerns over the lack of architectural merit in the plans of an 'important, historic, Listed coaching inn'.

'I understand that they (J D Wetherspoon) are going to re-submit improved revised plans which will respect the integrity of the Listed building whilst maintaining the peace and quite of those that live and work in the area.

'The revised plan will see a small extension which hopefully won't affect the many residents in West Street and King's Street that surround the hotel.

'It's a pity that they have closed the application but this will hopefully mean we can all work together for what is best for Tavistock.'

A spokesman for West Devon Borough Council said: 'The application has been withdrawn and the applicants are in discussion with Tavistock Town Council to sort out various details of the application prior to its resubmission.'