A historic Solihull pub, with roots stretching back to the 18th century, has been given the official go-ahead for a significant refurbishment after planners approved the scheme.
Planning Permission Secured for Major Refurb
The owners of The Mason Arms on Solihull High Street applied for listed building consent in August, seeking permission to refresh both the interior and the outdoor garden area of the popular venue. The application has now been approved by Solihull Council, with the authority's website updated to show that Mark Andrews, the head of planning, design and engagement services, granted the consent on Tuesday, December 2.
The permission comes with a condition that the work must begin before a deadline set for December 2028. The pub itself is a Grade II listed property situated within the Solihull Conservation Area, adding a layer of protection and requiring special consent for any alterations.
What the Refurbishment Will Involve
The planned works are designed to modernise the space while respecting its historical significance. Internally, the proposals include:
- Erecting new stud walls to create a screened back-of-house area and an additional bar servery.
- Installing new half-height walls with glazing.
- Laying new parquet brick flooring.
Externally, the focus will be on improving the garden and yard. Plans outline:
- The installation of a fixed seating area with a pergola.
- Reconfiguring an existing ramp and relocating steps.
- Adding new timber fencing and gates to create a larger yard area.
- Creating a dedicated staff parking bay.
Critically, the planning statement emphasised that no changes are proposed for the High Street elevation of the building, ensuring the pub's familiar facade remains untouched. It also confirmed that no internally significant historic structures or fittings would be removed or harmed by the work.
A Pub Steeped in Local History
The Mason Arms is a building with deep local heritage. Brewery deeds for the site date back to the 1750s, a time when the original cottages on the plot were occupied by stonemasons working on the church opposite—which is likely the origin of the pub's name.
Today, the pub is a well-known community hub, famous for showing live sports and hosting events like music nights. The approved refurbishment aims to secure its future while carefully preserving its past. The full plans can be viewed on the Solihull Council planning portal using the application reference PL/2025/01640/LBC.
