A Shropshire brewery has announced plans for the refurbishment of a West Midlands pub in what they describe as one of their most ambitious projects to date. Joule's Brewery bought the New Inn in Harborne in May last year, and now the firm says it plans to give the Victorian-era pub a new lease of life - but they keen to stress it would be preserving its heritage.
The plans include the replacement of the 'not-fit-for-purpose' current split-bar layout with a single bar which better connects to the pub's outside space, and the creation of a 'Garden Room' events space for around 35 to 40 people set to cater for community events. The firm, which operates more than 40 pubs across Shropshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire, says its plans will make the New Inn a 'warm, welcoming space for everyone' and the proposals include material changes which revive the history of the building such as using reclaimed bricks and panelling. The building's exterior is also set for a makeover to include landscaping, seating and a new lighting scheme, if plans are approved. 'The New Inn is a special site and one that we are very proud to now call a Joule’s Brewery Taphouse, we are committed to bringing Joule’s Brewery to Birmingham and are pleased to reveal that this will be our biggest investment in a Taphouse to date. It’s key for us to share our plans with locals and engage them in this process,' said Anna Brakel, Development Director at 'We’ve spent some time getting to know the pub, the locals, and the area. And now are absolutely delighted to share some exciting news that we have submitted plans to bring a bit of our Shropshire charm to this wonderful pub. 'For years, we’ve admired The New Inn from afar, and now that it’s part of the Joule’s estate, we’re ready to give it some much-needed love and attentio