We’re delighted to have secured Planning Permission for our fourth project with Lionhearth Group, The Cock Inn, in Combe – a public house restoration & modernisation of a Grade II Listed building in the heart of Combe village, part of the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty & Combe Conservation Area.
Located on the village green, the building dates back to the late 17th century & requires a comprehensive, & sensitive, programme of modernisation & improvement to bring the pub back to its former glory. Working closely with our client, we have developed a well-mannered & thoughtful refurbishment & extension programme that aims to preserve the historical features of the property, while introducing much-needed updates, enhancements & amenities. Works include replacement of the harsh, out-of-character additions from the 1960s & 1980s at the rear with a sympathetic extension to improve the functionality & flow of the space. Despite the challenges of the small site – which sits at 0.1 hectares, with a gross internal floor area of 300 sqm – the consented scheme addresses all aspects of the client’s brief in a comprehensive & elegant manner. The successful introduction of a modern commercial kitchen, expanded & spacious dining areas, accessible bathroom facilities, staff quarters & parking, balance modern functionality with respect for the original architecture.
Externally, the pub will undergo a transformation celebrating its original features, including roof & Cotswold stone facade restoration, oak timber frame, & zinc detailing. Interior plans aim to retain as many characterful elements as possible, such as beams, chimneys, barrel chute, architraves, & windows. A highlight is the conversion of the barrel-vaulted cellar into a unique private dining room with a domed ceiling. The new rear extension will feature an internal-to-external stone wall, dividing private dining rooms & incorporating full-height glazing to connect indoor & outdoor spaces.
This project not only restores a prominent building on the village green in Combe, but also brings back a much-loved community asset. The villagers have shown tremendous support for the application & we are excited to revive this key part of the community for them. Securing the longevity of such a beautiful, historic building & much-loved public house has also been a great privilege & we look forward to seeing progress on site in due course. In the meantime, we extend our thanks to Lionhearth Group for entrusting us with another of their valued projects & to JPPC Chartered Town Planners & JP Heritage for their invaluable advice & support.
