It is one of the biggest and most famous pub signs in the country.
And now the Ye Olde Starre Inn sign that spans Stonegate could get a modern makeover.
Owners Greene King have submitted an application to change a number of signs around the pub, which dates back to the 1500s and is Grade II listed.
[insert.advert]
This includes an upgrade to the much-photographed Stonegate-spanning sign.
The planning application states: “The proposed development will seek to enhance the vitality of the pub as a community asset, through improvements to the associated signage.”
It adds: “The proposal shall not result in the loss of or negatively impact upon the functioning of the pub. Rather it simply intends to replace the signage currently in place and in doing so rejuvenate the exterior of the building to better advertise the site to passing customers.”
How the new-look sign will appear. Image: planning documentsAnother visual
The sign above Stonegate is currently black with gold letterering, and a gold star on top.
Under the plans the gold lettering would be placed on a green background with a red star on top, and include the words ‘York’s oldest licensed inn’.
There would also be new signs to the entrance to the pub and elsewhere. Built as a private house in the 16th century, another wing was added to the property about 1600. By 1644 it was a pub called the Starre.
This makes it the York pub which can demonstrate the earliest date for its licence.
A star would be added to the beer garden under the plans. Image: planning documents
As for that sign, Wikipedia states: “In 1662, the pub was sold for £250, and in 1683, Edward Thompson inherited it.
“In 1733, the pub’s landlord was Thomas Bulman, and he signed an agreement with the owners of two shops on Stonegate that he could attach a sign to their premises, to hang across the street. A sign advertising the pub has hung across the street ever since.”
The plan “looks to update the signage on site in order to reflect the company’s latest branding”, the application says.
The Starre courtyard with new signs. Image: planning documents
It adds: “The proposed scheme remains modest, sympathetic and high-quality update to the existing level of signage on site and has been design with due regard to the character of the existing building…
“The proposal represents a significant investment and Greene King’s commitment to maintaining the existing public house and shall not harm the setting of any designated heritage assets within the surrounding local area.”
