Historic River Dee ferry crossing could be re-established as part of plans to rejuvenate village pub

A historic ferry crossing over the River Dee could be restored as part of plans to rejuvenate a village pub.

Wrexham businessman Graham Price recently became co-owner of The Boat Inn at Erbistock in what he described as a ‘snap decision’.

According to Mr Price, the 17th century pub was once one of the most popular in the area, but its trade has dipped in recent years.

Proposals have now been unveiled which could see the creation of a new bar, kitchens and toilet block.

According to planning documents, it could also result in the reintroduction of the hand-operated chain ferry,  which was formerly used to transport people visiting the village via horse and cart.

In a heritage assessment accompanying the application to Wrexham Council, consultant Rob Burns said some parts of the pull mechanism still remain.

He said: “The Boat Inn is currently redundant following an unsuccessful trading period, and requires some further re-modelling to ensure it has a sustainable future, and the historic buildings are secured for the future.

“The property is evidence of historic, adaptive re-use of former dwellings and ancillary structures into a public house, as well as illustrating the importance of the ferry crossing over the Dee.

“Its picturesque setting has provided inspiration for artists and photographers, and a number of images exist which show the buildings.

“The proposal is for a series of interventions within the building, and for the demolition of some of the later outbuildings and their re-provision.

“It is also proposed to re-establish the ferry connection across the River Dee.”

Works outlined include the demolition and replacement of a number of outbuildings.

The assessment carried out by Mr Burns shows there are still some elements of the original building remaining, including the 17th century door to the rear of the existing bar area.

He also said a winch previously used for the ferry still remains in place.

He added: “The proposals are compliant with local and national advice and policy on the historic environment, and the proposals represent minimal intervention into the listed building, which will help to secure its future.

“There are no conflicts with advice given in the conservation area appraisal, and the proposals represent minimum intervention, in order to bring the building back into sustainable use.

“In conclusion, the significance of the building relates to its plan form, detailing, materiality and narrative of adaptation and re-purposing, alongside its association with the operating of the ferry across the river Dee.

“The proposals will not have a negative impact on these elements of significance, and with the potential of re-establishing the ferry, will see a substantial improvement to both the building and the conservation area.”

The proposals will be decided on by Wrexham Council at a later date.

By Liam Randall – BBC Local Democracy Reporter (more here on the LDR scheme).

Picture: Planning document