THE FUTURE look of a pub named after one of the town’s leading businessmen have been revealed in new plans.

The Palmer Tavern pub stands in a prominent location in Wokingham Road directly opposite Palmer Park.

It was previously called The College Arms, but was renamed in 2016.

The pub takes its name from George Palmer (1818-1897), who is known in Reading for being the proprietor of Huntley & Palmer biscuits and serving as both a mayor and an MP during his political career.

The Tavern is one of the stops on the notorious No 17 Bus Route Pub Crawl, which sees hardy drinkers stop by each of the pubs along the route, which runs between The Three Tuns junction and the Tilehurst Water Tower.

Now, the Tavern’s owner Greene King has plans to make changes which pay respects to Mr Palmer.

The plans involve installing a gibbet sign of George Palmer in the car park, and recolouring the pub building with two-tone grey paint, replacing its current blue colour.

Reading Chronicle: Proposed new two-tone grey paint and signage for The Palmer Tavern in Wokingham Road, East Reading. Credit: Ashleigh SignsProposed new two-tone grey paint and signage for The Palmer Tavern in Wokingham Road, East Reading. Credit: Ashleigh Signs

Outside, Greene King wants to install a timber shelter in the garden, replacing fencing and adding new paving.

According to Greene King’s planning agents, the changes are aimed at bringing The Palmer Tavern ‘back to its former glory and re-establish its popularity within the town’.

A Greene King spokesperson said: “We are at the very early stages of exploring options to invest in The Palmer Tavern.”

The plans are split into two applications on the council’s planning portal:

  • Reference 231576 – External changes including new signs and paint
  • Reference 231523 – Construction of a new garden shelter with replacement fencing and paving