Plans to transform part of the George Hotel, a historic coaching inn in Newent, Gloucestershire, into holiday accommodation have received official approval. Co-owner Rhodri Yeandle aims to develop four holiday apartments while preserving the operation of the beloved Church Street pub.
The proposed changes, reviewed by Forest of Dean District Council on November 11, focus on two buildings situated at the rear of the inn. The ground floor of one building will continue to serve pub patrons with toilets and covered seating, while its first-floor function room will be converted into a one-bedroom holiday let. Meanwhile, the existing ground floor function room and bar within the main inn will remain in use, accompanied by a new open kitchen and bar ready to offer simplified dining options such as pizza and host pop-up catering events or food trucks.
Additional accommodation plans include transforming existing kitchen and storage areas into a one-bedroom holiday let, with the first-floor function room slated to become two separate one-bedroom holiday lets, each with its own entryway. The proposals also feature a new access route from Graces Pitch and creation of a dedicated parking area.
During the council meeting, Daniel Yeandle, Rhodri’s son and fellow co-owner, emphasized the inn’s centuries-long significance to the community. “The George Hotel has been at the heart of Newent for 400 years,” he shared. “It serves both residents and visitors alike. Continuing its legacy is crucial for us—not just to survive, but to thrive amid the current challenges faced by the hospitality industry.”
Nearby resident Francesca Rowley voiced concerns on behalf of Graces Pitch residents about the new rear entrance, citing safety and disruption risks. She noted the lack of a legal right of way through Graces Pitch, a quiet residential cul-de-sac, warning that increased commercial traffic and late-night activity could significantly impact the neighborhood’s character.
Addressing these points during the debate, Councillor Patrick Kyne highlighted the struggles facing pubs and small businesses today, advocating for vibrant and active town centres. “If people lived next to this facility 200 years ago, there’d be horses outside,” he remarked. “This is a coaching inn, and towns need to be lively, even if that means occasional noise. That’s a sign they’re alive.”
Ultimately, the council unanimously granted both planning permission and listed building consent, endorsing a future where the George Hotel remains a vital part of Newent’s heritage while adapting for modern times.