Popular pub chain Wetherspoon has been granted planning permission for a £500,000 beer garden in Whitehaven.

Copeland planners have approved a 3,000 square foot garden at The Bransty Arch pub on Bransty Row.

There is currently no timescale on the development.

The application states the national chain will develop an existing derelict site to form a beer garden, with associated works, at 5 Bransty Row.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: "The Bransty Arch is a very popular pub in Whitehaven and we are always keen to offer our customers the best pub possible."

He also said ten new jobs are likely to be created.

When news of the application broke, Stephen Walker, vice chair at West Cumbria Campaign for Real Ale (Camra), said: "Any investment into West Cumbrian pubs is very welcome as it keeps them going."

In September 2016, the pub chain scrapped plans for a rooftop beer garden in Whitehaven.

Speaking at the time, a spokesperson said the firm planned to withdraw its planning application – including a new customer staircase and disabled lift – and may pursue plans for a ground floor beer garden instead.

The £1.3 million Bransty Arch opened its doors in 2003.