Historic Stourbridge pub set for new lease of life

A legendary pub in Stourbridge is set for a new lease of life after planners approved a massive refurbishment.

Dudley Council has given the green light to an application for work to reopen The Mitre on Lower High Street, which has been closed since January 2025.

Pub owners Star pubs and Bars aim to bring the Grade II listed building back into use by providing ‘a welcoming experience to all visitors and provide improved facilities for all’.

The pub was built between 1932 and 1934 to replace a hotel which previously occupied the site, also called The Mitre.

Heritage England’s listing said: “The building’s Tudor Revival design, with leaded glass windows by Samuel Evans and Co, was a style that became known as ‘Brewer’s Tudor’ and marked a shift towards ‘improved’ or ‘reformed’ public houses which aimed to attract customers from the growing middle class.”

Improvements to the building will include repairs required due to water damage and deterioration while the building has been standing empty, new flooring and decorative timber panelling, repairs to windows and the addition of a roof lantern.

A statement in support of the application said: “The repair and refurbishment will have little or no effect on the overall character of the building both internally or externally, with the works being mainly to restore the existing building to its former glory.

“The premises do not have a designated car park, but the rear yard, once the surfacing has been repaired, could hold up to ten cars/vehicles.”

In a report recommending approval, council planning officers said: “It is considered that the development has been sensitively designed and would preserve the significance, character and appearance of the designated heritage asset.

“The works would facilitate the beneficial re-use of a prominent building within the High Street, securing its ongoing occupation and maintenance.

“The proposal would not result in any harm to the significance of the listed building or its setting.”

By Martyn Smith | Local Democracy Reporting Service