AN UPDATE has been released about plans to open a new pub in the old M&Co building in Stroud.

Pub group Amber Taverns is hoping to create a new “modern” and “attractive” drinking establishment in King Street.

It is believed 20 new jobs could be created, including part-time and full-time roles.

A spokesperson from Amber Taverns has now told the SNJ they are hoping to open the pub in September pending planning approval.

A change of use application was submitted to Stroud District Council on Friday, May 24.

The news has been welcomed by chair of Stroud Chamber of Trade, Tony Davey who says seeing vacant units taken over is a “welcome move”.

Pub group Amber Taverns currently has around 170 pubs across the UK including The Doctors in Eastgate Street, Gloucester.

"Modern community pub"

Operations director Gary Roberts said: “We are really looking forward to investing in Stroud and excited about the conversion of the premises into a modern community pub.

“The layout of the proposed pub will incorporate the existing features of the building and bring into life a property that has been vacant for quite a while.

“It is likely to be September before we could open if all permissions are in place and if the contractors are free to undertake the works.”

The application states it is hoped the pub will be open from 10am to 12.30am Sunday to Thursday and from 10am to 1.30am on Friday’s and Saturday’s.

In response to the news, however, many SNJ readers have stated they would rather see affordable homes built or a Range, a B&M or Primark open up instead.

Other suggestions also include reopening the closed Market Tavern in Union Street or even bringing back Poundland to the town.

Many readers also said the town centre already has too many pubs.

Existing pubs include the Queen Vic, the Retreat, the Lord John, the Golden Fleece, the Ale House and micropub The Town Owl Taphouse.

Meanwhile, other bars include Brodys, Trio Nightclub, the Carlton Club, the Stroud Hotel, Curio Lounge, Galgos Latino, the Corner House, Jrool Bistro and Central Bar & Kitchen at the Sub Rooms.

“Towns like Stroud have to evolve to survive"

Tony Davey, chair of Stroud Chamber of Trade said: “With the former M&Co building being empty for some time, it is good to see plans to utilise it and not let it fall into a serious state of disrepair - something that can happen quite rapidly.

“With the building being Grade II listed, it is also positive that a company who has experience in renovating such businesses has both identified this building as an opportunity and has concluded that Stroud is a good place to invest - creating local employment opportunities (often for younger people) and helping to boost the nighttime economy.

“Towns like Stroud have to evolve to survive, and this means that whilst traditionally towns may have been dominated by retail, they now need a different mix of retail, services and experiences.

“The town is currently on the wrong side of the national average of vacant units (though several are under renovation and will soon be back into use).

“Coming out of such economically challenging times and seeing vacant units taken is a welcome move.”

Clothing shop M&Co shut down in April 2023 after the company went into administration.

It is understood the other half of the old M&Co building is currently being sold by Sawyers Estate Agents for £425,000.

You can view the change of use application quoting S.24/0908/LBC or see here - tinyurl.com/yn4chnc3