A BID to prevent the permanent “demise” of a long-closed town centre pub and hotel has been launched.

The County Hotel, on North Berwick High Street, shut seven months ago following the sudden departure of then licensee Tony Breathnach.

The 10-bedroom hotel, which also featured a bar and dining area, was leased to Mr Breathnach by Star Pubs & Bars, part of Heineken UK.

Star Pubs & Bars has now lodged a planning application with East Lothian Council for a much-needed refurbishment of the premises – and is seeking a new operator to run it once it re-opens.

If planning consent is granted, changes would be made inside the building, including relocating the bar server and the public toilets.

A single-storey outbuilding would also be redeveloped to form an additional enclosed bar area with food.

A supporting statement lodged with the planning application said: “The works will enable the pub to remain in its original use, which is the optimum use in heritage terms.

“Without the proposed investment and improvements to the existing facilities, the public house could fall into gradual decline and as a worst-case scenario lead to its demise.

“This would be negative for the local community and would likely lead to redevelopment pressures, to convert the building to an alternative use.”

Existing beer garden areas would also be be “refurbished and improved”.

The statement added: “To enable the new beer garden to be an attractive and functional space, the former outbuilding – which is a later addition to the site – will be refurbished as part of the development.”

A spokesman for Star Pubs and Bars said: “The hotel is in need of refurbishment and we want to invest in it to create a great venue for the local community and visitors alike.

“We are currently in the planning process and look forward to sharing more details of the refurbishment in due course.

“We are also keen to find a new operator to lease and work with us on its vital investment programme to create an outstanding venue.

“The County Hotel is in an ideal location to benefit from the visitors and tourists who visit North Berwick every year for its stunning beach, harbour, Scottish Seabird Centre, golf courses and fantastic local wildlife. It offers a unique opportunity to run a thriving pub/hotel business with bedrooms and an excellent food and drink offer, which will appeal to both local customers and visitors alike.”

Judy Lockhart, chairwoman of the town’s community council, said: “The community council had been saddened when The County closed down and will be discussing the application at our public meeting in April.”

Anyone looking to find out more about The County should call 08085 949596.