The Middleton Tavern has lodged a planning application that the managers say will future proof the business against future COVID restrictions.

The iconic whale mural on the side of the tavern that greets people as they drive into Middleton will remain in place as part of the redesign.

In a letter sent to Alexandrina Council Tavern General Manager Nigel Mack says the pub is currently licenced to have 500 patrons at one time and the owners are not looking to change that number. 

He says that the alterations are planned to enable the Tavern to have extra floor space, allowing more patrons during times of COVID restrictions when additional social distancing is required.

Since the beginning of the pandemic the pub has at times been restricted to having as few as 80 patrons at a time. Like many local restaurants and pubs they adapted by adding takeaway and delivery options.

The plans show the addition of a raised deck over an amalgamated beer garden which would look out towards Middleton Point. The drive through area of the bottle shop will be moved and become parallel to Goolwa Road.

The plans will be considered by the Fleurieu Regional Assessment Panel and are available for public viewing and consultation on the Plan SA website until the 2^nd of August.

The Middleton Tavern originally opened in 1991 and was taken over by the Mack Family in 2007.   

It contains a collection of historical photos of Middleton and nautical and whaling artefacts.

It’s also the home of the Middleton Tavern Sports and Social club which regularly raises money for charities such as the Fleurieu Cancer Support Foundation, bushfire relief and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.