Micro pub plan is approved in Walsall
A growing family-run Walsall brewery is set to open up a micro pub on its site after planners gave the thumbs up to their plans.
AJ Ales, which is run by husband and wife team Andy and Charlotte Dukes, want to create the new strand to their business at Unit 11 on Ashmore Industrial Estate in Long Acre Street.
The business was set up six years ago in a neighbouring unit but proved to be such a success that they moved into a larger unit last year.
Mr and Mrs Dukes said the popularity of the brewery and events such as open days have fuelled the expansion plans.
Officers from Walsall Council’s planning department granted approval for the new micro pub, which will sell ales as well as cold food and snacks and be based within the current unit.
Revised opening hours for the operation would be 5.30pm to 11pm Wednesday to Friday, 12 noon to 11pm on Saturdays and 12 noon to 9.30pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays. It would be closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
AJ Ales’ planning agent Adam Design said: “Over the past six years, more than 20 different ales have been created.
“A four barrel brewing system is used and up to 144 gallons of beer can be produced in a single day.
“The beers are sold in bottles and mini kegs. They are also served in more than 20 branches of Wetherspoons.
“There is an open day for the public on the last Saturday of every month where the beers are served on tap. These days are very popular but obviously very limited.
“The proposal to change part of the premises into a micro pub would allow the couple of grow the business further. The open days are a hit with the punters and there is a strong demand for more flexible opening hours.
“It has been tough to build up the business from scratch in what is a very competitive field, however all the hard work is beginning to pay off.”