Historic Island Pub Could Undergo Major Works Scheme To Ensure It Remains 'Vibrant Destination'

An Isle of Wight pub best known for its carvery roasts is planning some major upgrades to ‘create a better customer experience’.

Consultants Boyer Planning lodged a new planning application to County Hall for ‘various internal and external works’ at the Sloop Inn in Wootton Bridge, on behalf of Mitchells and Butlers.

The application follows a prior bid to redecorate and rename the Grade II listed pub, known for its carvery roasts.

Following an objection from Wootton Bridge Parish Council, Boyer withdrew its application and proposed change of name to ‘The Watermill’.

The latest application’s proposed internal redecorations encompass the pub’s bar front counter, bar back fitting alterations, carvery, pizza and ice cream section, kitchen, glasswash room, party table area, toilets, entrance and adjacent dining space and dining area.

Proposed works include new lighting, new flood defences to doors and garden area redecorations.

A submitted Planning and Heritage Statement said:

“The proposed works seek to ensure the public house will continue to be a vibrant destination, assisting in helping to retain and attract new patrons.

“The proposed alterations have been designed to preserve and respect the historic fabric of the existing public house whilst providing much needed updates to provide patrons with a better customer experience to support the site’s viability.

“The design is reflective of the high-quality nature of the Mitchells and Butlers approach to their estate, and the proposals will form an attractive, bespoke, and inviting environment.”

The pub dates back to the 18th century.

County Hall’s public consultation on the proposal ends on June 9 and a decision is expected on July 2.