Historic village pub near Hartlepool set to be transformed into apartments

The former Ship Inn, in Wolviston, could be transformed into apartments.

The Ship Inn, in Wolviston, on the outskirts of Hartlepool, will see its brick outbuildings at the back demolished and its former bar turned into a ground floor apartment if Stockton Borough Council planners approve the move.

The 19th Century High Street pub closed its doors at the end of 2019.

Planning documents show developer Alan Moutrey aims to sensitively convert the pub to fit in with the character of Wolviston’s conservation area.

Last orders was called at the pub in late 2019.

The heritage statement added: “The Ship had been struggling to survive for several years prior to its closure in 2019.

“The Wellington Inn opposite provides a full service to locals and has a large car park with a well maintained beer garden for al fresco eating and drinking.”

An existing pub car park will be retained under the plans with access to the new ground floor home kept using the same pub entrance.

Some alterations will be made off West Hartlepool Road to provide a driveway and parking for the new apartments.

Heritage documents from the developer said the prominent position of the former pub meant it was an important feature in the village.

The report added: “The proposal will not affect the key heritage assets of the village, as the proposed visual changes to the building are minimal and return the building view to that of an earlier period in its history.

“The conversion into residential accommodation will not alter any other existing features.”

There have, however, been two objections from residents with noise and dust fears central to concerns.

One wrote: “The development proposed at the Ship Inn will inevitably cause noise, mess and disruption – particularly if work continues over any weekend days as I work full time.”

Environmental health teams have recommended conditions be attached to ease the impact during construction and demolition should the revamp be approved – with work from 8am until 6pm on weekdays and work from 9am until 1pm on Sundays.

A decision is expected in the coming weeks.