Plans to turn Oswestry’s Plough pub into restaurant

Plans to convert The Plough on Beatrice Street into an eatery, with accommodation above, were revealed last week in a planning application.

Applicant Sagar Sapkota hopes to change the use of the ground floor of the building and extend it with a single-story development. In doing so, he hopes to create seven full-time and three part-time jobs.

He also hopes to convert the first and second floors into three one-bedroom apartments that would be available on the open market.

The popular pub closed its doors last summer when landlord and landlady Maggot and Rache said they were "devastated" to say goodbye after three years.

READ MORE | Oswestry’s most friendly and ‘irregular’ pub' set to close

Planning agent Simon Smith, of en-plan, said the changes will allow the former pub to "adapt to contemporary needs".

He explained: "The change of use from public house to restaurant represents a continuation of a hospitality function and is therefore compatible with the building’s historic character.

"The introduction of residential flats at upper levels will secure the ongoing use and maintenance of the building, contributing positively to its long-term conservation.

"The proposed extension will result in a minor degree of change to the building’s footprint; however, due to its sensitive design and subordinate scale, it will not detract from the architectural or townscape significance of the host building."

Mr Smith continued: "The proposals will preserve the building’s contribution to the character and appearance of the surrounding area.

"No adverse impact on key views or the wider historic environment is anticipated. The continued active use of the site will support the vitality of the area."

If approved by Shropshire Council, the restaurant would be open seven days a week between 12pm and 11.30pm Monday to Saturday, and 12pm to 11pm on Sunday and Bank Holidays.

The Plough was a favourite among many people in town and was well known for being a great live music venue.

Maggot and Rache said in their Facebook post: “As devastated as we are on the loss of our amazing pub The Plough Oswestry, the whole staff team here would like to thank everyone for their amazing support over the last three plus years.

“From our irregulars, to every fantastic musician/band to grace our stage, we thank you all from the bottom of our hearts. It was the people and the music that made it such a special place. We are so very sorry it has ended like this."

They added: "Our big old ship The Plough has come into dry dock. Who knows what the future holds."