The owners of a Grade II listed pub want to give the historic building a makeover.

If plans are approved, the Regency Tavern in Brighton will get a fresh lick of paint, new signs and rainbow-coloured columns.

Among the signs the pub wants to put on the building, which lies between Russell Square and Regency Square, would be one announcing it to be the “most glamorous pub in Brighton”.

Owners Shepherd-Neame Ltd said the redecoration is needed to revitalise the “tired” exterior and to ensure the building’s longevity.

“The Regency Tavern is a popular venue and is well supported by the local diverse population,” said planning documents.

“The tired exterior has a run-down appearance and this proposal is intended to bring the building up to date with redecoration and new signage to maintain customer loyalty.

“The colour scheme has been chosen to reflect the base colours generally used on the surrounding architecture – namely creams with white windows.”

“Colour has been added in the fascia signs and it is intended to add a playful touch by colouring the steel columns which support the passage facade.

“The signage is traditional in nature, employing mainly blue and gold colours.”

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A planning and design access statement, written by Colin Ladd Associates, said the work will have no detrimental effect on the historic fabric of the building.

“In addition to becoming a destination for both visitors and local residents the scheme will provide a significant uplift to the street elevations and will ensure the longevity of the listed building into the future,” said documents.

“There will be no detrimental effect on the historic fabric of the building and the proposals will add interest to the street scene without clashing in any way.

“We therefore hope that the council will support the application and enable the upgrading to proceed.”

One commenter welcomed the plans. They said: “I'm pleased to see that the ludicrous and wholly inaccurate painted sign claiming that this is an ‘18th century historic pub’ is being removed and the more accurate date '1830' is being added."

As well as serving drinks and food Regency Tavern has a packed programme of events including quizzes, cabaret, karaoke and drag acts.