Plans to turn pub into cafe revealed

A school hopes to transform a village pub that has stood empty for almost a decade into a café. The Swan Inn in Sturry High Street stopped trading in 2011, and has since stood vacant. Its boarded-up frontage has deteriorated over the years, with the building frequently targeted by vandals.

But the Junior King’s School hopes to breathe new life into the property by transforming its ground floor into a café serving hot and cold drinks and food. Parts of the premises are thought to date back to the 1400s. But despite its prominent position in the centre of Sturry, little is known about its history, other than that is was likely once used as a staging post for coaches travelling to Herne Bay and Thanet.

Several years ago, an application to have The Swan registered as an “asset of community value” was rejected by the council. It was then marketed as a pub, but no buyer was found. It was purchased by the school less than a year ago.

The private co-ed says turning the inn into a café would have a positive impact on the village community, while “no significant changes” would be made to the Grade Ii-listed building. Documents attached to its planning application say: “There is no similar facility or service available in the immediate area.

“It will provide a venue where people can meet during the day, socialise whilst obtaining food and refreshments in a centrally accessible and highly sustainable location. The proposals will provide a positive contribution by enhancing the range of services available locally.”

If the plans are given the green light, the café would employ three full-time members of staff. It would run from 9am until 5pm daily, occasionally staying open until 9pm for private events. Upstai rs , t he pr o pe r t y’ s four-bedroom flat would be used as accommodation for school staff, while outside there would be parking for cars, as well as a seating area and garden. n What do you think? Email kentishgazette@thekmgroup. co.uk.

The Swan Inn in Sturry High Street