New look for the Crab Inn – inside and out

Pub and brewing giant, Greene King, have been given listed building and planning consent to enhance the Crab Inn’s outdoor space, with a covered pergola, glass balustrade and festoon lighting, and carry out changes to the pub’s interior.

The Grade II listed pub, in Shanklin, described by the American poet, Henry Longfellow, as a “lovely little thatch-roofed inn” dates back to the 18th century.

The company’s agent, Design Management Partnership Ltd, said in a statement: “In keeping with current trends, the client wishes to develop the outdoor space to provide covered outdoor seating for its clientele that can be utilised year round.

“Outdoor seating is highly desirable for the hospitality industry post 2020.”

Internal changes include a complete refurbishment of the toilets and putting in an accessible platform lift, extra dining seating and an enlarged bar servery.

In an Officer Written Justification report, the council said: “Concerns were raised over the use of a glass balustrade as the material was considered to be out of character with the architectural and historic significance of the area.

“Following discussion, this was revised to a black metal railing which was considered to be more appropriate to the setting of the listed building and to the character and appearance of the conservation area.”

On the proposed internal changes, the council added: “With regard to the internal alterations, these are relatively minor and mostly relate to previous alterations.

“As such, there is no concern with the refurbishment of the toilets, new floor finishes and the accessible platform lift (this would replace a set of stairs which are of no historic merit).”