Historic Wolverhampton Pub Set for Revival as Desi Bar and Grill
Plans to breathe new life into a long-vacant Wolverhampton pub have been given the green light by city councillors, paving the way for its transformation into a vibrant desi bar and grill. The decision marks a significant step forward for the local community, which has endured the blight of an empty and vandalised building for several years.
Planning Committee Approves Pub Conversion
City of Wolverhampton Council's planning committee has approved an application to reopen the former Royal Oak pub on New Street in Portobello. The approved scheme includes not only the revival of the pub as an Indian bar and grill but also the creation of three new one-bedroom flats within the premises. This development aims to address both the need for community facilities and housing in the area.
The approval comes after a delay from September, when councillors discovered that part of the pub had already been converted into seven flats without proper permission. This unauthorised work prompted a deferral of the decision, allowing time for amended plans to be submitted and reviewed.
Addressing Community Concerns and Anti-Social Behaviour
The Royal Oak, situated on the border of Wolverhampton and Willenhall, has been closed since 2022. During its vacancy, the building has attracted significant problems, including fly-tipping, rat infestations, and vandalism, making it an eyesore for local residents. Councillor Robert Maddox, who grew up near the pub, expressed his sadness at seeing the building in such a state but welcomed the redevelopment plans.
"They are both successful businesses that contribute hugely to the area and community they are in," Cllr Maddox said, referencing other desi grills like the Firs in Castlecroft and the Pendulum in Pendeford. "It is a big, big community benefit."
Revised Plans and Financial Viability
The applicant, Bye To Let Ltd, acknowledged the unauthorised conversion work and submitted amended proposals to regularise the situation. The company stated that a 15-year lease had been secured to convert the pub into an Indian bar and grill, with the flats to be privately let. According to the application, the first-floor flats are considered essential to ensure the financial viability of the pub operation.
Council planning officers recommended approval of the application, noting that the proposals would bring a valued community facility and locally listed building back into use. Their report highlighted that the single-storey extensions are modest and in keeping with the building's character, while the amended flat plans comply with national space standards and are unlikely to cause unacceptable impacts on neighbours.
Overcoming Objections and Looking to the Future
While the plans received some objections, particularly concerning earlier proposals for a house of multiple occupation and a hand car wash (which was later removed from the application), councillors ultimately supported the scheme. Councillor Ben Evans noted his initial concerns but expressed pleasure at seeing a pub reopening, while Vice Chair Councillor Alan Butt described the refurbished venue as sounding like a "place to enjoy" in the future.
The approval represents not just the revival of a historic building, but a positive step towards addressing anti-social behaviour and providing new community facilities in Wolverhampton. The desi bar and grill model has proven successful in other local areas, offering hope that the Royal Oak can once again become a thriving hub for the community.
