Work has begun behind the scenes to open a popular restaurant chain’s first branch in Staffordshire.
Hickory’s Smokehouse is due to open its doors on the site of the King’s Horse pub and carvery in Stafford later this year.
Both brands are owned by Greene King, which has applied to Stafford Borough Council for planning permission to make modifications to the building, refurbish it and build a single storey kitchen extension to allow for a larger food preparation area.
A design and access statement submitted with the plans reads: “The proposal is basically a rebranding to another Greene King enterprise, Hickory’s.
“The rebranding is accompanied by a refurbishment of the current building along with external additions of a veranda in order to provide extra outside space.
“The main building entrance will be changed to allow single access/egress which is a characteristic of Hickory’s development as it provides control of the access by staff and ensure the security of customers. A canopy will also be created.”
It adds: “The proposed changes reflect the brand change of the property but also respond to changes pubs need to make following the covid pandemic.
“Outside space and ‘bringing the outside in’ is a vital element in giving customers what they want.
“The proposed scheme reflects this, and the updating of the premises will provide a better and more focused facility for customers.”
Hickory’s Smokehouse has more than 20 barbecue-style restaurants offering a taste of America’s Southern States, mostly across the Midlands and North West of England. Dishes on the menu include Southern fried chicken, Memphis style baby back ribs, burgers, mac and cheese and hand-pulled pork.
The King’s Horse, on Kingsway, is currently still open.
A decision on the planning application is expected to be made in the coming weeks.
