A West Norfolk pub could temporarily relocate while its main building undergoes major renovations.
The Stag in West Acre has asked planners at King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council for permission to operate from a neighbouring cottage while the work is carried out.
The pub could move into Ford Cottage for around 18 months from February 2027, with the owners seeking permission for up to two years in case the renovations take longer than expected.
A planning statement submitted on behalf of the West Acre Estate, which owns the pub, said: “The Stag pub is a small building which means that it is not possible to phase the works within the pub building and to keep it open to serve customers.”
It said closing for such a long period could make it difficult to attract customers back and would mean the pub could not retain its experienced staff.
The Stag currently employs the equivalent of five full-time staff.
The planning statement said: “The simplest solution which will retain staff and customers who are used to coming to the existing pub, is to use the ground floor of Ford Cottage as a temporary pub.”
The proposal would see the ground floor of the cottage used as a bar and dining area, with the pub’s outdoor seating moved alongside the building.
A temporary container housing the pub’s cellar would also be placed next to the cottage.
Four short-term letting rooms on the first floor of Ford Cottage would continue to operate during the temporary arrangement.
The West Acre Estate already has planning permission to improve The Stag and Ford Cottage, with the original plans approved in January 2024.
The planning statement said the estate valued having a pub in the village and had worked hard to ensure its success.
It added: “To shut the pub for around 18 months will threaten the success of the pub which is a valued community facility unless a temporary facility can be provided.”
The plans include five parking spaces at Ford Cottage, with another 17 spaces remaining available at The Stag while part of its car park is used for building work.
Borough council planning officers have previously indicated that the temporary relocation is likely to be supported, although a formal decision on the application has yet to be made.
