East Norfolk Cider planning to open tap room in Ormesby

Russell Watson, of East Norfolk Cider that is an award-winning brewery based in Scratby, is hoping to open a tap room in neighbouring Ormesby St Margaret.

The bar would be called The Butcher's Tap Room and showcase the brewery's own cider and apple juice, as well as selling a selection of local ales, spirits and wine, and hot drinks and snacks.

The proposed location is on Wapping in a former estate agents, Town and Country, which closed down in September last year.

The former estate agents on Wapping in Ormesby that could reopen as a bar selling local cider and ale. (Image: Google Maps)READ MORE: Meet the Scratby family who dedicate their lives to cider

A document supporting the application highlighted the potential social benefits to the bar.

"A television will most definitely not be present in the Tap Room," Mr Watson said. 

He added they see the bar not only as a showcase for their products, but also as "a meeting place for people to chat to other customers and make new friends".

He said the inclusion of board games such as draughts, backgammon, chess and dominos would "encourage people to enjoy their time in the tap toom".

There would be benches at the front of the building to allow people to sit outside.

Russell Watson at East Norfolk Cider, Scratby. (Image: Denise Bradley)

READ MORE: Britannia Pier regeneration plans come before council

The proposed name of the bar is a nod to the history of the premises, previously a butcher’s shop.

"Although the premises are small, we hope this will become a well-loved part of the community," Mr Watson said.

"We intend to open seven days a week which is going against the local trend in the area."

READ MORE: Council's grave error sees man buried in the WRONG plot

East Norfolk Cider have operated from their brewery in Scratby for 14 years.

Using the traditional rack and cloth method, Mr Watson presses over 3,000 litres of apple juice and cider every year in the village near Great Yarmouth.

A decision on the bid, which has been submitted to Great Yarmouth Borough Council, is expected by July 2.