Two Staffordshire pubs are undergoing revamps totalling more than £370,000.
Star Pubs, which is owned by Heineken, has announced a £250,000 refurbishment of The Middle Bell, in Barton-under-Needwood, in East Staffordshire, whilst it is also carrying out £123,000 of work alongside The Banx Pub Group on The Princess Royal, in Dresden, Stoke-on-Trent.
The Middle Bell will close after last orders today for an overhaul being undertaken in conjunction with new licensee Terri Phillips, who took over in February.
They have promised to take the venue, which is believed to date back to the late 1700s, to ‘the next level as a great quality village pub’.
The inside will have a sympathetic interior revamp and a new dining room created in a disused conservatory, whilst the outside of the pub will be renovated and an extended 70-seater alfresco dining and drinking patio at the rear that also provides space for outdoor events will be developed.
A new bar, darts board and screens for watching sports will be added, with the pub expected to reopen in early December.
Cocktails, afternoon teas, barista-quality coffee and more events, including ale and music festivals are also on the cards.
Star Pubs’ investment manager for Staffordshire, Craig Foweather said: “Terri has done a fantastic job and given The Middle Bell the TLC and new lease of life it was crying out for.
“We’re delighted to be backing her with this investment. It will turn The Middle Bell into a beautiful premium local pub for all the community to enjoy. We’re working flat out to reopen for the festive season.”
The Princess Royal closed for refurbishment on Sunday and will reopen on 11 November.
The top-to-toe overhaul aims to bring the pub ‘into the 21st Century’ and create the ‘best drinks pub in the area’.
Work being carried out includes fitting new lighting and carpets, a new fire and bench style seating in the lounge, refurbished snug furniture and upgraded toilets.
The sports area will benefit from a new darts board and pool table as well as new high seating.
The outside of the pub will have a facelift, being redecorated in grey and teal blue with new lighting and signage, more in keeping with the upgraded interior.
The family and dog friendly local will cater for four legged friends with a Woofchester menu.
Manager Claire Walker said: “The Princess Royal is a focal point of the community, raising lots of money for local charities and hosting many social events, from live music to quizzes and fundraisers. It’s a salt of the earth type of place where everyone looks after each other.
“The pub does need attention which is why we are all very excited by the refurbishment and are looking forward to the pub’s future. It is a great early Christmas present for the community.”
