Historic Nottingham pub planning raft of major changes to improve exterior

A historic Nottingham pub is planning a raft of changes to improve the exterior of the building. The Cross Keys, on the corner of Byard Lane and

Fletcher Gate,

has lodged new plans with Nottingham City Council for changes including a retractable awning over its patio drinking space.

Agents for the pub say the awning "will encourage customers to use the patio drinking space all year round as it will provide shelter against the elements." Other changes include a new 1,700mm bin store to "shield the bins from customers' sight, create a tidier space and prevent rat infestation."

New timber planters, a new timber bench to provide more seating and a large copper lantern at the main entrance are also among the changes planned. The agents for the pub say in their planning documents: "Our client is happy to speak to all neighbours and any other parties who wish to discuss the proposed plans. However to this point, no specific consultation has been carried out."

The Cross Keys offers classic pub food and seven hand pulled cask ales. Owned by the London-based RedCat Pub Company since 2022, the site had previously been in the hands of the Nottingham-based Great Northern Group for a decade.

A range of internal works to the pub are also being planned, including new timber flooring in the lower bar area. There would also be three new fixed seating bays, new decorative vinyl on the windows and full decorations throughout the toilets and corridors.

The planning documents add: "The areas for intended development will not detract from the beauty of the area, nor cause damage to the historic fabric of the building. All the works will be finished to a high quality standard of quality and workmanship and will be keeping with the current style of the public house and will blend in sympathetically to its surroundings." The plans, submitted on October 11, will now be considered by Nottingham City Council.