A significant restoration project is underway to transform a historic building on Birmingham’s Gas Street into a traditional pub, set to be named Gas Street Vaults. The venue, which has been operating as the Waterside Tap for the past year under Joule’s Brewery, is undergoing a comprehensive renovation to revive its original heritage features and establish it as a premier destination for classic pub experiences, including the highly anticipated Sunday roast. The brewery aims to open the doors to its new establishment in early 2027.
Reviving a Canal Heritage Site
The building, formerly occupied by Bistrot Pierre, holds a rich history as the original Birmingham Canal Company building. Its strategic location overlooking the waterway leading to Gas Street Basin meant that tolls for canal traffic were once collected from its very vaults. Joule’s Brewery, a Shropshire-based independent brewery, acquired the venue with a commitment to respecting its past while creating a vibrant future.
The restoration process is meticulously focused on revealing and enhancing the building’s inherent character rather than undertaking extensive structural changes. Reclaimed materials, including wood sourced from old churches and other historic pubs, are being incorporated to ensure the renovation authentically reflects the building’s heritage. This approach underscores the brewery’s dedication to preserving the essence of the original structure.
A Vision for Gas Street Vaults
Upon completion, Gas Street Vaults is envisioned as a central hub for the community, featuring a prominent bar at its core. Surrounding spaces will be thoughtfully designed to evoke Birmingham’s industrial past and the atmosphere of traditional Victorian taverns. The interior design aims to create distinct areas, each offering a unique ambiance that complements the building’s historical narrative.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Gas Street Vaults will offer a robust culinary and beverage program. Patrons can expect to enjoy Joule’s award-winning beers, alongside a menu featuring seasonal specials, classic pub fare, and, of course, traditional Sunday roasts. This commitment to quality food and drink aims to solidify the pub’s reputation as a go-to spot for authentic pub experiences.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
Joule’s Brewery has emphasized a community-centric approach to the renovation. Prior to commencing work, the brewery engaged with the local community to understand their needs and desires for the space. This inclusive strategy has informed the ongoing restoration, ensuring that the final establishment resonates with the people it serves.
The brewery has been providing glimpses of the renovation progress through social media updates, allowing the public to follow the transformation and anticipate the final reveal. This transparency reflects Joule’s commitment to building anticipation and fostering a connection with future patrons.
Gas Street Vaults will operate as a sister venue to Joule’s other Birmingham establishment, The Red Lion in the Jewellery Quarter. While the management team that oversaw the Waterside Tap for the past year, George and Tori, will transition to focus exclusively on The Red Lion, a new, dedicated team will be appointed to manage Gas Street Vaults upon its opening.
An Investment in Birmingham’s Heritage
Vicky Colclough, managing director at Joule’s Brewery, highlighted the brewery’s deliberate and patient approach to significant projects. “As an independent brewery, we have to be patient with projects like this,” she stated. “We save for them, we plan carefully and we only invest when we know we can do something properly. 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.” She also expressed gratitude to George and Tori for their contributions to establishing Joule’s presence in Birmingham.
Georgia Charlton-Briggs, brand manager at Joule’s, shared her enthusiasm for the project. “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 commented. “As a small independent brewery from Shropshire, we’re incredibly proud to be investing in Birmingham. 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.”
The transformation of the historic canal building into Gas Street Vaults represents a significant investment in Birmingham’s heritage and its vibrant hospitality scene. The project promises to deliver a unique pub experience that honors the past while embracing the future, offering a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy quality food, drink, and atmosphere.
