Plans have been unveiled to restore The Mitre, a historic listed pub in Stourbridge town centre, with owners Star Pubs and Bars aiming to bring the venue back to its "former glory." The pub, located on Lower High Street, has been closed since the start of 2025 when previous landlord Michael Cartwright retired.
Refurbishment plans submitted
Star Pubs and Bars has submitted plans for listed building consent covering refurbishment and repairs to both the ground and first floors. The proposals include new flooring, safety and ceramic flooring, and decorative timber wall panelling on the ground floor. On the first floor, repairs will address water-damaged floors and ceilings, alongside restoration of the roof lantern.
The company emphasised that existing windows will be repaired rather than replaced to preserve the building's character. The plans aim for minimal impact on the listed building's appearance, with no landscaping or changes to the building's footprint proposed. A rear yard, once resurfaced, could accommodate up to 10 vehicles.
Community importance highlighted
In a statement, Star Pubs and Bars said: "Our client believes that a pub is an important part of any community, as it offers a place for people to socialise and relax in an alternative environment to their home." The company noted that the public house is "very popular with the local community" and often one of the few places inclusive to many areas of society.
Star Pubs and Bars said it would like to strengthen this role by offering improved facilities throughout, ensuring the pub is more suited to safe socialising and dining for all. The refurbishment will also aim to improve accessibility and comply with the Equality Act 2010, making the pub welcoming and usable for all members of the community.
Reopening hopes and next steps
Owners hope the refurbished pub will once again become a central part of the community. They said: "The intention to re-open once planning approval is granted so this once vibrant public house can once again be an integral part of the local community." The company has stated that the refurbishment will be "promoted locally," generating interest in the improvements and attracting customers from further afield as a destination pub.
No formal consultations have yet taken place, but Star Pubs and Bars said they are open to discussions with neighbours and other interested parties. The plans are currently awaiting consideration for listed building consent.
