Swan Inn pub in Poole to become commercial unit with flats

Developers Elliott Heron Limited say they will “respect the integrity” of The Swan Inn in Old Orchard after BCP Council granted permission for the building to be renovated.

The site, which has sat vacant for around a decade after last being occupied by an Enid Blyton inspired Ginger Pop Shop, will soon house two commercial units on the ground floor and three self-contained two-bedroom flats on the upper floors.

Several objections to the plans were filed by residents whose main issues included an apparent loss of heritage and living condition concerns in relation to the large 64 apartment project under construction to the side and rear of the building on the former Poole Pottery site.

Plans to renovate The Swan Inn in Old Orchard, Poole. Picture: Elliott Heron Ltd

However, council case officer Sophie Burch disagreed, stating in her report: “The proposal will allow for the viable use of a long vacant heritage asset. Retaining commercial uses on the ground floor with residential uses to the upper floors continues what is a long tradition with public houses of this type in the Old Town.

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“Minor works are proposed to the exterior of the building [and] it is not considered that the proposal will detrimentally impact the character and appearance of the area or locally listed building. The proposal will ensure acceptable living conditions for future occupiers and also ensure neighbouring amenity is not detrimentally impacted.”

The proposed building will retain the frontage of The Swan Inn, while creating a more contemporary rear elevation.

The Swan Inn pub in Old Orchard, Poole, is set to be renovated for commercial and housing use

Regarding tenancy for the commercial space, several uses were suggested including:

• Display or retail sale of goods
• Sale of food and drink
• Financial services
• Professional services (other than health or medical services)

The building’s distinguishable front green tiles will be protected, as will the existing sash windows.

All windows on the rear elevation will be obscurely glazed to prevent any overlooking from those in the eventual Poole Pottery flat site.

The proposal does not provide any car parking to potential residents or commercial space staff which was described as “acceptable” by the case officer given the site’s central quayside location. Secure cycle storage will be provided.