Bid to restore historic village pub

A historic but currently shut North Herefordshire country pub is to be renovated with a view to bringing it back into use later this year.

The half-timbered, grade II listed Bateman Arms in Shobdon, near Leominster, dates from the 18th century, but has been closed since being put up for sale in summer 2021.

Now new owner Mike Pope has applied for permission for an extensive programme of renovation to the building.

This covers the timber framing, rendered panels, chimney stack, roof, guttering and windows, some of which will have to be repaired off-site or replaced.

A survey of the building in November revealed it “had degraded, with little to no repairs done to the property” – particularly on the timber frame and panelling, some of which was coming away, allowing rainwater to enter the main bar.

The application also seeks permission for a temporary marquee in the grounds of the pub, “to ensure its viability and profitability in the future”.

A new sign would be hung on the original 18th-century wrought iron bracket at the front of the pub.

Comments on the applications, numbered 224276 (planning permission) and 224277 (listed building consent), can be made until February 23.