New lease of life on way at renowned Dudley pub

Plans to revamp the Thorns pub, in Quarry Bank, including an extension to create a new kitchen area have been submitted to Dudley Council by Birmingham firm BS Enterprises.

The pub, in Thorns Road, was once one of the best-known in the Black Country for its mural of rock stars outside the building and garnering a series of awards for its carvery.

But the pub closed more than two years ago and has remained disused since despite frequent announcements the site was to be refurbished and reopened.

It has been branded an eyesore by residents.

Under the new plans, the extension would also house a store, washing area, toilets and extra seating for customers.

There would also be a timber-decked children's play area to the rear and a seating area to the front of the building.

Trees and shrubs would be planted between the play area and rear of the site and all existing plants at the site would be retained. A gentle ramp would provide access for disabled customers. A covered yard would be demolished to make way for the new extension if the scheme is approved by members of Dudley Council's development control committee.

The scheme will be discussed by councillors later this year where a decision will be made.

Lye councillor Tremain Herbert said it would be a major boost to the area to have the pub refurbished.

"It has been empty for a couple of years and has fallen into a dilapidated condition," she said.

"It is real shame because the pub used to do so well.

"I know it was well used by the people of Lye and Quarry Bank. There are so many pubs standing empty in the borough; it is excellent to hear this one could be getting a new lease of life."

The site has been empty since January 2011 when former owners Marston's Brewery reclaimed the pub from previous licensee Paul Skitt, who had run the site since 2002.

It shut its doors due to declining trade and spiralling costs which Mr Skitt said had been it impossible to continue.