Major changes at one of region’s quirkiest pubs

AN ambitious bid to extend and renovate a unique dale pub with an events garden has been put to planners.

The Milbank Arms, in Barningham, will be refitted with new ensuite bathrooms and have its ground floor opened up for public eating and drinking if new proposals are given the green light.

Owners Barningham and Holgate Estates want to launch a two phase project at the 19th century pub aiming to have weddings and events at the Walled Garden at the other side of Barningham Road to bring in more functions. A design statement on behalf of the estate said the grade I- listed pub was in “dire need” of a complete renovation given its “low capacity in the bar” and “a lack of parking”. It states: “The fabric of the Milbank Arms public house is in a state of disrepair and it is not operating as a sustainable commercial entity.

“The pub is well known to a few and enjoys an eccentric following by people who visit infrequently. It is not able to support itself commercially.”

The Milbank Arms has been tenanted by Neil Turner and his family since 1937 and was listed as an “asset of community value” after a bid by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) last year. It lacks a bar, meaning Mr Turner has to go into the cellar to get drinks. Quirky furnishings adorn the toilets and Mr Turner is known for his cocktails – and unique sense of humour.

Under the plans, outbuildings near the pub would be brought into use and an additional building has been lined up to provide en-suite bedrooms. More parking would be made available at the two acre Victorian walled garden to “relieve” the limited space at the front of the pub.

A barn being used as a joiner’s workshop would also be extended to provide an “open plan” events area with a temporary marquee. A trial period of events would then ensue to test the site before a more formal arrangement developed.

The estate also pointed to boosting attendance and “rejuvenating” St Michael’s and All Angels Church as a reason for the radical plan. Five permanent jobs and ten temporary positions at the renovated pub have also been touted. The design statement added: “It is appreciated this is a very sensitive building and needs to be approached with care and compassion.

“The intention is to respect and value the original fabric of the building but the need to update the layout in order for the business to function appropriately is vital to its viability and future success.”