A York pub has submitted its third plans in a year for a refurb.
The Windmill Inn on Blossom Street would get new signs and would be repainted if owner Greene King’s application is approved.
The company’s plans stated the refurbishments would aim to compliment the character and history of the Grade II listed pub which dates back to the 17th Century.
Plans lodged with City of York Council would see the outside of the building painted white, black and green, with copper-coloured letters used for the sign with the pub’s name.
The colours have been chosen to match Greene King’s branding.
Hanging signs featuring a picture of a windmill would replace existing ones which have aged and no longer meet the company’s standards, according to the plans.
They would be lit up by LED lighting.
Windmill, York
Two rejected bids
Greene King have had two recent sets of plans to update the exterior rejected by City of York Council.
A year ago, they submitted plans to paint it in a cream colour called Farrow & Ball tallow.
A large painted blue windmill would have been added to the north east elevation, on the corner of Queen Street.
And there would be new signs and lanterns.
This was refused because the “excessive illumination of the proposed signs”, the “modern shiny metallic finish” of the lettering and the “the unnecessary clutter” was said to be harmful to the historic building.
Then new plans were put in last May for new signs and a new coat of paint. These were rejected because they caused “visual harm to the special architectural and historic interest of the Grade II listed building”.
New plans
The new plans stated that the pub building was originally two cottages built in the 17th Century, likely during reconstruction works after the siege of York in the English Civil War.
It was first recorded under its current name in 1735, when it was owned by the Lee family who also leased a windmill on The Mount.
The building was extended in the 18th and 19th Century and it played an important part in York’s local economy following the opening of the city’s railway station.
It catered to travellers and provided stabling for around 65 horses and had its own brewhouse until 1893.
The pub is also said to be haunted by the ghost of a girl run over by a brewer’s cart and ostler, someone who looked after the inn’s guests’ horses.
It was listed in 1968, with notable features including its chimneys, bay windows, staircase, carriage arch and stable range.
Plans stated: “The Windmill Inn has a rich history dating back to the 17th Century.
“It has been a staple in the Blossom Street area for centuries, serving as a gathering place for locals and travellers alike.
“The building itself is a fine example of traditional English pub architecture, with its charming exterior and welcoming atmosphere.”
- Additional reporting: YorkMix
