Historic Island Pub To Get New Name Despite Parish Council Resistance

The Sloop Inn in Wootton is to get a new name.

The Isle of Wight pub, known for its carvery roasts, will have its name changed to ‘Stonehouse at the Tide Mill’.

Council officers have approved Boyer Planning’s proposal for internal and external works at the pub as well as a separate bid for new signage.

Consent was granted despite Wootton Bridge Parish Council (WBPC) ‘strongly’ objecting to the new name.

A WBPC spokesperson said:

“We feel that changing the name to ‘The Stonehouse at the Tide Mill’ is a misrepresentation and would be confusing for patrons. It has been a well-known Island landmark since the mid-1700s, and Southern Vectis bus stops are designated as ‘The Sloop’”.

WBPC did not however object to the internal and external works scheme, application 25/00492/FUL.

The signage plans include an illuminated, post-mounted pictorial sign, two illuminated V style signs, a lantern, illuminated lettering and an illuminated roundel sign.

Boyer’s proposed internal changes at the Grade II listed pub encompass its bar front counter, bar back fitting alterations, carvery, pizza and ice cream section, kitchen, glass washroom, party table area, toilets, entrance and adjacent dining space and dining area.

External proposals 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.”

County Hall’s decision reports said:

“It is considered that the impact from the proposed (signage) works would be minimal and as such officers are satisfied that the proposals would have no greater harm to the significance of the building.

“The council’s conservation officer concludes that it would not be reasonable or possible, to suggest the name chosen would represent harm to the significance of the listed building.

“This is a well-established public house, which would be classed as a community facility, and it is considered that the proposal would offer modernisation/improvements of the listed building and facilities, allowing for the business to continue contributing to the local economy and employment offer in a sustainable location.”