Historic Stockport pub to reopen for the first time in four years with new revamp

A popular pub in Stockport could be set to reopen for the first time in four years following a 'complete remodel and refurbishment'.

The Pineapple Inn, on Heaton Lane, has been closed since 2020 after shutting down during the pandemic. Originally a family-run pub, the venue had previously been described by locals as ‘kitsch’ with a ‘friendly fab atmosphere’ and a wide selection of ales and beers.

Situated behind the Runaway Brewery, who will be hosting their first ever beer festival in May and June, owners Robinsons Brewery & Pubs have now submitted planning permission documents with Stockport Council to transform the venue and bring it back to life.

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Runaway, fronted by Mark Welsby, were keen to share their excitement at the potential reopening of The Pineapple on social media. The brewery posted: "Great to see [Robinson's] are looking to renovate and re-open The Pineapple! It's been closed since 2020 - will be so good to have active neighbours with beer at their heart."

The planning documents suggest that the pub building, which overlooks the Stockport Viaduct arches, would be in need of a full re-fit, with a new shop front, alongside new windows, gates, and decoration all proposed. It would also feature an increased kitchen space and will be painted with murals of iconic Stockport buildings and historic locations on the outside.

Situated on the corner of Heaton Lane and Astley Street, the building first appeared on the 1824 maps of Stockport. Originally a coaching house, the building became a pub in the early 20th century and was also used as the local headquarters for the botanical society. Photos from as early as the 1930s depict it was used as a pub.

Robinson’s said the complete renovation would see the three-storey venue become a popular traditional pub in the area once again. It's just a short walk from the main Stockport town and the newly-opened multi-million pound bus interchange.

In a Design and Access Statement, the brewery said: “The Pineapple Inn, situated on Heaton Lane, is owned by Robinsons Brewery has been mainly closed since 2020 when it was closed due to Covid, it temporary opened for a few months and The Brewery is now looking at reopening the pub, with a significant investment.

“The pub is conveniently located with the dropback of Stockport’s famous Viaduct and The River Mersey. It is also close to some of Stockport Landmark Building including the Hat Works, The Plaza, Merseyway shopping and the new Wier Mill Development and Transport Interchange.”

Robinson’s added that the pub demonstrates its ‘investment’ into its hometown, which would ‘add to the ever-growing nightlight to Stockport’. The brewery, which first started life in 1838 when William Robinson purchased The Unicorn pub on Lower Hillgate in Stockport, is now one of the UK’s largest independent family brewers, with around 250 pubs across the North West and Wales.

Robinson's have been approached by the M.E.N for further details. The application is with Stockport Council, and is under consultation until May 9. You can see the application here - reference DC/091556.