An historic Long Sutton pub is set to reopen next month following a £140,000 refurbishment.
Customers at The Olde Ship Inn in London Road can expect “a proper old pub”, according to Sean Portass, whose company STP Properties owns it.
The exterior has had a massive facelift, including installation of a thatched roof. Inside, exposed beams have been replaced with oak, and the plumbing and electrics have been replaced.
However, there are issues to be resolved following a visit by a South Holland District Council planning officer on Monday (Feb 27) to discuss the utilised exterior paint colour and brickwork on the porch, and a caravan on site providing accommodation for the pub’s two chefs.
Sean says amended plans for the brick slips will be submitted and the caravan will soon only be used for storage. The cream exterior colour is likely to remain as plans did mention “off-white”.
The project has not been a smooth ride for Sean who was issued with a solicitor’s letter by Long Sutton Parish Council following complaints by residents.
He suspects the planning officer’s visit this week came as a result of further complaints, but he is determined to remain focused on completing the project ahead of the scheduled opening on Good Friday, April 14.
Sean said: “The detail and expense I have gone to, to make this place amazing is pretty extensive. I just think it’s crazy that people go out of their way to complain about petty things.”
Parish council chairman Coun Charles Moore said the council has always welcomed regeneration in the town and is pleased to see the investment in The Olde Ship Inn.
He added: “We’re very supportive of the project and if the district council is happy, then so are we.”
South Holland District Council says it received a planning complaint which is being investigated. It says it was aware of social media postings and confirmed that the complainant was not Long Sutton Parish Council.
