Pub company reveals plans to revive fire-hit Shropshire venue one year after blaze

A fire-struck pub looks set to reopen after plans for its refurb were submitted to the local authority.

The Barley on the corner of Newport’s High Street and Stafford Street has been closed since a fire broke out in September last year.

Fire crews from across Shropshire rushed to the scene, where they remained for several hours tackling the blaze.

Fortunately, as the pub was closed at the time and nobody was on site, no one was injured in the blaze.

In the aftermath, the owners said the pub was in need of “a major makeover” and predicted the venue would not reopen until “early 2026”.

Now, almost 12 months after the blaze, refurbishment plans have been lodged for the site.

Owner Star Pubs has submitted a planning application to Telford & Wrekin Council for the external redecoration of the building, as well as new signs and lighting.

Documents stated the proposals have been developed to “improve the appearance, legibility and continued commercial viability of the premises while preserving the building's architectural and historic significance”.

Plans are available to view online on Telford & Wrekin Council’s planning portal using reference number TWC/2026/0646.

• You can find out more about planning applications and planned roadworks where you live by visiting publicnoticeportal.uk/shropshire-star