A scenic countryside pub is looking to 'diversify'.

The Hanging Gate Inn, in Higher Sutton, has applied to Cheshire East Council for permission for two glamping pods.

If given the go ahead, these will be installed on the field next to the 400-year-old pub's car park.

Owners Hilary Spokes and James Schofield say such a development would help increase revenue, securing the future of the pub.

"The revenue from the pods will help us complete building works and meet overheads so that we can offer food, employ staff, increase opening hours etc," reads a social media post shared by the pub.

"Without this income stream we daren't even think about the future viability of the pub.

"The pods will bring visitors to the area who will support other local businesses such as local cafés, pubs and shops."

Publicans Hilary Spokes and James Schofield (Credit: Nub News)

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While a supplier has not yet been chosen, the planning application states that each of the pods would be made from dark sustainable wood, as to make them sympathetic to the landscape.

They will be around 4mx8m and will contain an en suite bathroom, a small kitchen and sleeping arrangements for two adults.

Operated year-round, the site would be marketed as a 'peaceful and relaxing well-being retreat for nature lovers'.

No party groups will be permitted on site, preventing any potential anti-social behaviour.

The application adds: "The proposed glamping pods provide a modest, sustainable, and well-designed addition to the local tourism offer.

"Demand for this type of accommodation is high throughout the country, which has also been shown to be true of other glamping sites within England.

"The scheme will diversify the services of the Hanging Gate Inn, encourage longer visitor stays, and generate wider economic benefits for local shops, attractions, and businesses."

Design concept included in the application (Credit: CEC)

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Neighbours have shown their support for the plans, one writing: "We think it's a lovely way to bring more custom to the pub and to help keep it viable."

Another local resident said: "We are acutely aware of how challenging running the pub is, particularly making ends meet through the winter months.

"We have seen first-hand all the lengths Hilary and James go to in order to run the pub as cost effectively as possible.

"But rising operating costs, changing consumer habits, and the inherent seasonality of rural trade present a never ending challenge.

"We fully appreciate that in order survive such mounting pressures they need to explore innovative ways for the business to remain viable.

"The proposed glamping pods represent a thoughtful and proportionate response to these challenges."

The application can be viewed on the Cheshire East Council planning website under the application reference number, 26/0331/FUL.