A pub caught in a planning squabble on the outskirts of the city has applied for further changes as part of a much bigger transformation project.

Greene King pub The Otter, in Thorpe Marriott, has recently sparked some concern among locals after applying for some garden upgrades, including the installation of a pergola and a covered walkway, as well as a walk-in freezer.

Now, Greene King has also revealed plans to change the pub's name to The Old Mill, asking Broadland District Council for planning permission to install new signs.

Eastern Daily Press: The pub will be called The Old Mill if the new signs are approvedThe pub will be called The Old Mill if the new signs are approved (Image: Greene King/Ashleigh via Broadland District Council)

It turns out that the pub is currently being transformed as part of a Greene King initiative to encourage budding hospitality managers to experience running their own business - without the huge start-up costs.

A spokesman explained: "Currently known as The Otter, we are planning a rejuvenating refurbishment of this pub which is close to Norwich to transform it to a Hive Pub under its new name The Mill.

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"The refurbishment will see a change of first impressions externally with new high-impact signage and lighting.

Eastern Daily Press: The Old Mill will still be maintained by Greene KingThe Old Mill will still be maintained by Greene King (Image: Greene King and Ashleigh via Broadland District Council)

"The pub will look more welcoming and diner-friendly upon entering.

"The current presence of gaming machines will be toned down and darts will be located to the rear of the pub as we zone strong drinking and sports viewing areas alongside a fabulous new garden featuring a covered pergola with external TV.

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"The Mill will be a strong community pub welcoming a wider clientele."

Eastern Daily Press: The Otter pub in Thorpe MarriottThe Otter pub in Thorpe Marriott (Image: Sonya Duncan/Newsquest)

 

The pub - which opened in November 1991 as the estate was being built - will be named The Old Mill as a nod to the history of mills in the area.

As part of the Hive Pub Agreement, Greene King takes care of the property costs, energy bills, stock, marketing, training and ongoing support, while the pub manager oversees the running of the business.