B&B plans for village pub approved

Planning permission to convert an ageing skittle alley into luxury en-suite bed & breakfast accommodation has been granted to the owners of the Grade II listed Old Malt Scoop Inn at Lapford.

The freehold of ‘the Scoop’ was acquired in July 2015 by the current landlords, Trevor and Linda Voaden, who completely refurbished and renovated the historic main building to create a contemporary environment that has become one of the most popular pub/restaurants in mid Devon.

Linda Voaden said: “We always wanted to add bed & breakfast to the business but had to go through a rigorous planning process because the skittle alley, which was in need of considerable repair, was part of the Grade II status. We believe it may have been the Inn’s original stables and we are delighted that the planners have taken the view that sympathetic conversion will benefit both the business and the village community.”

At the same time, the blade of a long lost malt scoop used as part of the pub sign has been found, restored and erected in front of the building. The work was undertaken by builder and Scoop customer Derek Pleace.

Linda Voaden added: “We’ve enjoyed a fantastic first 18 months and are really pleased how the village has welcomed us and supported the business. Finding the old sign at the same time as getting our planning permission is symbolic in starting a new chapter for the Scoop."

Chairman of Lapford Parish Council, Ian Hemsworth, said: “The Old Malt Scoop has breathed new life into Lapford and is a focal point where many of us can meet and enjoy ourselves. It has created a lot of jobs locally and is supporting local suppliers including Westcountry brewers and cider makers.

“The village feel very buoyant at the moment. Our pantomime in January was sold out, our annual music festival Lapstock enjoyed its biggest success in its 10 year history last summer and our football team has had successive promotions and is again riding high in the league.

“Planning permission for bed & breakfast at the Scoop is an added bonus and will attract more visitors to Lapford, create more spend in the village and, hopefully generate more jobs.”

Work has started on the bed & breakfast facility which is scheduled to open in May.