Listed former Lloyds Bank in Stony Stratford set for new lease of life as specialist wine, cheese and coffee bar
A prominent listed High Street building in Stony Stratford which has sat vacant for years is set for a new lease of life after plans were submitted to transform the former Lloyds Bank into a wine bar which also serves cheese and coffee.
The bank, which closed its doors in September 2021, has remained vacant for more than three years — but now a new independent business hopes to bring the landmark site back into use.
Two planning applications have been lodged with Milton Keynes City Council relating to the property at 67 High Street. The first, PLN/2025/1999, seeks full planning permission for a change of use from its previous designation as a Class E premises (covering uses such as banks and professional services) to a sui generis wine bar.
If approved, the venue will operate as The Winery, a bar promoting itself as a relaxed destination offering wines, cheese boards and speciality coffee. A website for the brand is already live, indicating plans for a stylish, cosy interior aimed at evening and weekend visitors as well as daytime coffee drinkers.
Because the building is listed, a second application — PLN/2025/2001, for listed building consent — has also been submitted. This details the internal and external works required to convert the former banking hall into a functioning bar while respecting the historic fabric of the structure.
The proposals include installing lightweight stud partitions to create a bar servery area, a preparation and back-of-house section, and three toilets (male, female and accessible). An alteration to an existing opening is planned to allow better access to the new accessible WC. The plans also specify the fitting of new oak internal doors, chosen to be in keeping with the building’s period character.
Externally, The Winery is seeking permission for an illuminated fascia sign, a projecting panel sign and a traditional-style hanging swing sign, all of which would be fixed to the mortar joints to avoid damaging historic brickwork — a key consideration for listed buildings.
The proposals mark the latest example of former bank branches being repurposed following widespread closures across the country. For Stony Stratford, a town known for its independent shops and vibrant hospitality scene, the change could bring a boost to the northern end of the High Street.
Local residents and businesses will now have the opportunity to comment on the planning applications before they are considered by Milton Keynes City Council. If approved, refurbishment work could begin later this year, with The Winery joining the town’s growing number of boutique bars and eateries.
The applications and others from your area can be viewed on the Public Notice Portal.