Research by York Civic Trust’s Planning Caseworker, Will Kommer, has shed new light on the possible history of an outbuilding behind the Saddle Inn in Fulford. It strengthens our case for its retention.
The two-storey building stands to the rear of the historic pub. It is currently proposed for demolition as part of plans to create a decked beer garden. The Civic Trust is objecting to its loss. We question if adequate consideration has been made to the building’s history and long-established relationship with the neighbouring public house.
Will’s research has now identified a compelling comparison in Lincoln. Behind the Lion and Snake pub stands a Grade II-listed former brewhouse which bears striking similarities to the Fulford building.
Both are narrow, two-storey brick structures associated with historic public houses, with similarities in their overall form and elevations. Particularly interesting, are features which may help explain otherwise puzzling elements of the Saddle outbuilding. This includes what appears to be a former opening subsequently boarded over.
The comparison is significant because historic pubs were often more than simply places in which beer was sold. Brewing, storage and other ancillary activities could take place in buildings behind the main public house. Documentary evidence already indicates brewing activity at the Saddle; with an 1890 auction description of the premises specifically including a brewhouse.
Taken together, the documentary evidence and Will’s architectural comparison provide a convincing reason to investigate the outbuilding further before its loss is contemplated. While further evidence would be needed to establish its original function conclusively, the Lincoln comparison offers an important clue that the surviving structure may represent a tangible part of the Saddle’s brewing history.
The Lion and Snake also provides inspiration for what might happen next. Rather than being demolished when its original brewing function became redundant, this former brewhouse has been converted over its lifespan for new use and currently provides a valuable role in serving a new hospitality use associated with the pub.
The Trust believes a similar approach should be explored at the Saddle. Retaining and creatively reusing the building would provide useful space whilst preserving the distinctive history and development of this pub – something that a new decked area could not replicate.
The Trust will be incorporating Will’s findings into its response to the current planning application.