A PUB has announced its extension work is now underway as it prepares to cater for more customers.

The Princess Charlotte, in Stanway’s Stane Park development, started serving punters back in 2018 and has proven popular ever since.

The McMullen & Sons pub bears the name of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s second child and was the first in the country to pay homage to the Royal youngster.

In 2021, the owners applied to Colchester Council to build an extension to the pub and were given the green light in February last year.

Gazette: Upgrade - plans to build an extension to the pub and were given the green light in February last yearUpgrade - plans to build an extension to the pub and were given the green light in February last year (Image: N/A)

Plans include an extension at the back of the building to increase the total floorspace.

It is understood it will be the far side of the restaurant which will be extended onto this grass area nearby.

The planning report said: “The proposal relates to the erection of a single storey extension to the existing public house, to allow for additional internal floorspace to increase the number of internal covers and enhance the internal layout.

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“The proposed extension will be to the rear of the site, albeit this elevation faces out towards the main highway.

“The extension will increase the total amount of internal floorspace by 56sqm.”

The application added how the extension would “provide an enhanced offer” for customers and contribute to the “vitality and viability” of the wider area.

It said: “The proposed extension will provide a sensitively designed, high quality addition to the rear of the application site building.

“There will be no adverse impact upon the existing car parking facilities of the surrounding area.”

The extension work is now underway with the pub staying open as usual during the period.

In a short update statement, pub bosses said: “The Princess Charlotte extension is finally underway and starting today (Monday, April 24).

“As you know these things take time and a few helping hands so don’t be alarmed if things seem a bit different around here for a while.

“We’ll continue to keep you updated as we welcome this exciting new chapter.”