Plans lodged for new outdoor seating area at historic Telford pub in World Heritage site

An historic Telford pub's owner wants to create a new outside area for its customers.

The Six Bells, in Church Street, Madeley, was first licensed in 1821 and was named after the chiming instruments in St Michael’s Church which sits opposite.

Now Ipswich-based Red Oak Taverns has applied to Telford & Wrekin Council to demolish a small outbuilding, extend its patio area and build a covered lean-to pergola.

Solihull-based planning agent Harkin Walker Limited has told council planners that the applicants want to use a grass area within the pub's large car park to create an upper courtyard seating area.

"The proposal makes use of an already developed part of the Six Bells site and extends an existing external seating area," the agents write.

"The new seating areas enhance and improve the existing building and does not obscure or compete with significant views of St Michael’s Church.

"The proposal does not result in the loss of any car parking spaces and will support the continued viability of the public house."

They are also planning to include a new covered smoking shelter at the pub which is included in Telford & Wrekin Council’s Register of Buildings of Local Interest.

The pub is in the Severn Gorge Conservation Area, the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site where there are strict planning controls.

The agents add that the proposal protects and enhances the historic significance of the building and its setting.

It will also provide "improved facilities for locals to enjoy", supports economic growth, and it a "vital community asset that brings locals together."

The plans can be seen by searching for the reference TWC/2026/0812 on the council's planning portal.

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