Exciting plans for the historic Old Neighbourhood pub in Chalford Hill have been revealed to Stroud Times.
Wes Birch, of Birch Catering, who runs the much-loved Ship Inn in Brimscombe which has garnered a reputation for its high-quality food has bought the pub, formerly known as The Mechanic’s Arms – and has great plans for the alehouse.
The Old Neighbourhood closed more than two years ago and has lain empty ever since. It has been the focus of an incredible community campaign to reopen it. Residents said its closure ‘marked a further decline in amenities for an otherwise vibrant community with a population larger than Nailsworth but with a fraction of the businesses, services and social venues.’

Mr Birch has plans to recreate the winning formula of The Ship Inn, given the size of the pub: “We’re hopeful we can get to about 55 covers, and that’s a good number, roughly what we’ve got at The Ship. That way we would have a split of 50/50 wet/dry [drinking and dining customers] in the pub.
“I’d like to focus on real ales – maybe three cask ales – and get through them quickly – that means they are always fresh.”
Gallery courtesy of www.gloucestershirepubs.co.uk
He also aims to recreate the character of the original pub, believed to date back to the early 19th century: “The floor was so damp and neglected for so long, it was just beyond repair or salvage.
“We’ll be removing the staircase, tidying up the bar area, opening up the fireplace, and I just want to try and make it look like it’s been that way for 200 years.”
There are also plans to renovate the beer garden and redesign parts of the pub: “How incredible will this be? This will be a stunning little spot in a few weeks’ time.”
Mr Birch hopes to reopen The Old Neighbourhood by the summer.
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