The managing director of a Burntwood packaging firm is bringing a derelict pub back to life with a £1 million investment into transforming it into a gourmet restaurant and bar.
Entrepreneur Billy Hutchinson, of Lesters Packaging, has bought The New Inns in Brewood and has begun an extensive refurbishment programme to create The Lesters Arms.
He hopes it will become a destination venue for discerning diners and drinkers looking for a new level of personal service, imaginative dishes and a wide selection of craft ales and signature cocktails.
More than 20 jobs are being created as part of the project.
“I’ve been fortunate to enjoy some fantastic establishments in the UK and overseas and have taken lots of inspiration from all of them and poured it into The Lesters Arms, a place for people to socialise and enjoy a level of food and service they can’t get anywhere else,” said Billy, who has recently moved to the area.
“The site had been earmarked for new homes, but we’ve already lost too many pubs and restaurants in Wolverhampton and Staffordshire, and I didn’t want that to happen again. At the same time, we knew we had to create a venue that offers something different.”
He continued: “In essence, we want to create a ‘favourite’ relaxed gourmet destination for people who really enjoy life.
“The service will be warm, friendly, and attentive, the food and drink sourced from the finest local ingredients and there will be plenty of surprises along the way.
“We want people to remember their visit and return time and time again.”
Refurbishment work should be completed in time for an early January launch event and opening.
Once complete, the venue will boast 60 covers and a luxury lounge area.
An extensive recruitment drive is underway, with above industry pay packages for serving staff, bar tenders, head chef and kitchen personnel.
The venue will also look to host corporate clients looking to stage away days or entertain customers.
Billy added: “We are passionate about where we come from and this will be reflected in the ever-changing, locally inspired menu and, importantly, in the community events that we will hold.”
Billy has expanded the family-run packaging business by 100 per cent in the last 18 months, and Daily Focus reported in June that its turnover had hit £18 million.
He has also turned around the fortunes of a logistics company that now operates in the Lesters ‘supply chain’ ecosystem.
To apply for a position at The Lesters Arms, email [email protected]
