Background

The British pub industry continues to evolve as operators adapt to changing customer expectations and operating conditions. Many businesses are exploring new ways to make the most of their available space, with diversification becoming an increasingly popular way to enhance the customer experience and develop additional revenue streams.

Paul Withers Green, owner of the popular Ferry Inn in Stone-in-Oxney, identified an opportunity to make better use of a small grassed field adjacent to the customer car park. The aim was to transform the space into a flexible area for leisure and events, complementing the pub’s existing offering and creating new opportunities for visitors to enjoy the setting.

The Challenge 

The field was only usable during the driest months of the year. Natural ground conditions meant it was prone to becoming muddy and flooded, limiting when and how the space could be used.

The historic 17th century inn, originally built in 1690 as a stop for travellers crossing the River Rother, sits within the low-lying marshland of Stone in Oxney. With the Reading Sewer watercourse running nearby and the Royal Military Canal close by, the surrounding landscape is naturally prone to high water levels and saturated ground conditions.

Paul needed a solution that would significantly improve drainage while respecting the sensitive rural setting and avoiding disruption to the pub’s day-to-day operations.

The Solution

FGS Pilcher was appointed to design and install a land drainage network tailored to the site. Using our Mastenbroek 10/12 compact mini trencher, our team installed a full drainage system over just three days.

The trencher’s wide-track design allowed work to be carried out with minimal surface disturbance, preserving the appearance of the field while delivering an effective long-term solution.

The Outcome

FGS Pilcher was appointed to design and install a land drainage network tailored to the site. Using our Mastenbroek 10/12 compact mini trencher, our team installed a full drainage system over just three days.

The trencher’s wide-track design allowed work to be carried out with minimal surface disturbance, preserving the appearance of the field while delivering an effective long-term solution.