A historic building on Birmingham’s Gas Street canal towpath is undergoing a significant restoration to transform it into a traditional pub, set to open in early 2027. Joule’s Brewery, a Shropshire-based independent brewery, is spearheading the project at the former Bistrot Pierre venue, which has been temporarily operating as The Waterside Tap for the past year. The site holds historical significance, having been part of the original Birmingham Canal Company, where tolls were once collected in its basement vaults.
Restoration Focus on Heritage and Character
The renovation project, named Gas Street Vaults, aims to meticulously restore the building’s inherent character rather than undertaking extensive structural changes. Joule’s Brewery is committed to preserving the venue’s heritage, incorporating reclaimed materials such as wood sourced from old churches and other historic pubs. This approach is designed to highlight the building’s existing architectural features and historical context.
Vicky Colclough, managing director at Joule’s Brewery, emphasized the brewery’s patient and deliberate approach to such projects. “As an independent brewery, we have to be patient with projects like this,” Colclough stated. “We save for them, we plan carefully and we only invest when we know we can do something properly.” She added that the past year of operating the venue as The Waterside Tap provided valuable insight and confidence to proceed with the full restoration. “Spending the past year in the building has given us the confidence to move forward and create the pub we always believed it could become.”
The interior design of Gas Street Vaults will feature a central bar as its focal point. Surrounding areas are planned to be distinct, drawing inspiration from Birmingham’s rich industrial past and the atmosphere of traditional Victorian taverns. This design philosophy aims to create unique spaces that tell a story and offer patrons an immersive experience.
A New Chapter for a Historic Location
The building’s transformation into Gas Street Vaults marks a new chapter for the site, which Joule’s acquired after Bistrot Pierre ceased operations. The brewery engaged with the local community during the initial phase, seeking to understand local needs and preferences before commencing the renovation. This community-focused approach is a hallmark of Joule’s expansion strategy.
Georgia Charlton-Briggs, brand manager at Joule’s, expressed enthusiasm for the project and its connection to Birmingham. “Seeing Joule’s beers being enjoyed beside Birmingham’s canals over the past year has been incredibly rewarding,” she commented. “It’s one of Birmingham’s great waterside locations and we’re excited to finally give the building its permanent identity as Gas Street Vaults.” She further highlighted the brewery’s pride in investing in the city, stating, “As a small independent brewery from Shropshire, we’re incredibly proud to be investing in Birmingham.”
Gas Street Vaults is envisioned as Joule’s Brewery Tap in Birmingham, a destination that not only celebrates the city’s history but also upholds the core values of a traditional pub: exceptional beer, hearty food, and welcoming hospitality. “Gas Street Vaults will become our Birmingham Brewery Tap, somewhere that celebrates the city’s remarkable history while staying true to everything we believe makes a proper pub; great beer, honest food, warm hospitality and spaces full of character,” Charlton-Briggs added.
Pub Offerings and Future Management
Upon its opening, Gas Street Vaults will offer a selection of Joule’s award-winning beers. The food menu is expected to feature seasonal specials, classic pub fare, and, notably, traditional Sunday roasts, catering to a wide range of customer preferences. The pub aims to provide a comprehensive dining and drinking experience that complements its historic setting.
The management of the new establishment will be handled by a dedicated team. While landlords George and Tori managed both The Waterside Tap and Joule’s other Birmingham venue, The Red Lion in the Jewellery Quarter, during the initial period and ahead of the restoration, they will be transitioning to focus solely on The Red Lion. “We’re incredibly grateful to George and Tori for everything they’ve done over the past year,” said Vicky Colclough. “They’ve helped us establish ourselves in Birmingham and we’re delighted to see them begin their next chapter at The Red Lion, Jewellery Quarter.” A new team will be recruited and trained to manage Gas Street Vaults once the renovation is complete.
Community Engagement and Investment
Joule’s Brewery’s commitment extends beyond the physical restoration. The brewery has indicated plans to continue engaging with the local community, ensuring that Gas Street Vaults becomes a valued and integral part of Birmingham’s social fabric. This investment represents a significant commitment from the independent brewery to the city’s hospitality sector and its heritage preservation efforts.
The restoration process is being documented and shared on social media, allowing the public to follow the progress and gain a preview of the finished establishment. The brewery anticipates that the combination of historical ambiance, quality beverages, and classic pub food will make Gas Street Vaults a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike, celebrating Birmingham’s unique heritage along the canal.
