Joule's Brewery's proposals to refurbish The New Inn in Harborne, a historic pub described as a 'cherished local landmark', have been recommended for approval by council officers. The plans include landscaping, covered canopies in the beer garden, and rear and side extensions to create additional event space. The internal layout would also be reconfigured to suit a modern pub layout, according to a council officer's report. The application will be considered by Birmingham's planning committee on Thursday, July 9.
Details of the Proposed Refurbishment
The New Inn, located in Harborne, was taken over by Joule's Brewery in May 2024. The brewery subsequently unveiled plans to refresh the pub, which they stated was in need of 'much-needed attention'. The proposed refurbishment includes a rear and side extension to provide additional event space, along with landscaping and covered canopies in the beer garden. The internal arrangement would be reconfigured to better suit a modern pub layout, as per the council officer's report.
Council Officer's Recommendation
In a report summing up the position on the proposals, the council officer wrote: “The development is acceptable in principle and would support the continued operation of the Public House. The development also raises no significant concern in regard to design and appearance, highway safety or biodiversity.” The officer noted that concerns related to noise and disturbance were considered, but “appropriate conditions” had been added to address those matters. The report also stated that “the built development has been found to preserve the significance of the Conservation Area. As such the proposal is recommended for approval subject to conditions.”
Community and Brewery Response
Speaking about the project last year, Joule's development director Anna Brakel said: “This has been years in the making for us, and we are incredibly proud to finally see our plans move forward. We have been humbled by the support from the Harborne community, and it means the world to us that people care so deeply about The New Inn. We are committed to preserving everything that makes it special while bringing it up to the highest standard.”
Joule's managing director Vicky Colclough added: “As a small, independent brewery, we have been saving up for an investment like this for a long time. It's a huge moment for us, and we feel incredibly grateful to be in a position to make this kind of commitment to a historic pub like The New Inn. We know how much this place means to the locals and we share that sentiment completely. Our job is to make sure we do right by the pub and the community who love it.”
Next Steps
The application is set to be considered by members of Birmingham's planning committee on Thursday, July 9. If approved, the refurbishment will proceed, ensuring the continued operation of The New Inn as a community hub.
