The man who bought a 17th century pub visited by Charles Dickens is hoping to restore it to its former glory with a few extras.

Rabal Singh, 61, bought the Crispin and Crispianus in Strood at auction in 2012 but until now has remained tight-lipped at about what he plans to do with it.

Mr Singh has lodged a planning application with Medway Council to build a rear extension and extend upstairs to provide bed and breakfast accommodation.

Mr Singh said: “I am hoping to keep the downstairs a pub and include restaurant and dining area and include a tearoom.

“The building is listed so we have to keep most of it as it is and I hope to keep the Dickens theme.”

It is expected a decision will be made by councillors in January.

Mr Singh said: “I hope to build four bed and breakfast bedrooms upstairs and six in the annexe at the back of the pub as well a garage and a storage area.

“The vision is there. Let’s hope I can put it in place.”

The pub was frequented by Charles Dickens, who used to walk there from his home at Gad’s Hill, Higham. He would sit in the corner, hoping to find inspiration for his characters.

The pub in London Road closed in September 2010. The building was ravaged by fire in 2011.