Three greater Manchester pubs – The Windmill at Failsworth, the Bird I’ Th Hand at Urmston and the Fox & Hounds in Flixton – are to receive a £750,000 investment to transform them into great quality traditional locals.
The expenditure is part of a £4 million investment by leased pub operator Star Pubs & Bars in its North West pubs in the last two years including £1million in Manchester.
Star Pubs & Bars says with operators having invested significantly in Manchester city centre pubs in recent years, residents of outer lying residential areas now want to see similar quality at their locals and to be able to enjoy great food, coffee and entertainment on their doorsteps throughout the day without the need for travel.
Work has started on a £250,000 refurbishment of The Windmill and a £336,000 refurbishment of the Bird I’ Th Hand. Both projects are being under taken in conjunction with new licensees who are also local residents. Tracy and Mark Harold and Jason Parker are taking over The Windmill whilst Dawn Embury is taking on the Bird I’ Th Hand.
There are common themes to the projects which Star Pubs believes are vital to ensure they have broad appeal. Work at both pubs will involve a complete refurbishment of their interiors making them stylish and comfortable. The kitchens will be upgraded and dining areas added to enable all day food. Barista quality coffee machines will be installed with the licensees looking to extend their opening hours to serve breakfast and morning coffee. TV screens, Sky and BT Sport as well as high speed Wi-Fi will be put in to allow sports screenings and both pubs will provide entertainment nights.
Outside, The Windmill and the Bird I’ Th Hand will be renovated and redecorated to reinstate them as attractive features of Failsworth and Urmson and new furniture and children’s play areas will be added.
Lawson Mountstevens, Star Pubs & Bars managing director said: “Heineken is a passionate supporter of the great British pub. We’re firm believers in the future of community locals. However to thrive they must change in line with the needs and expectations of their neighbourhoods and receive investment to provide outstanding quality. The investment in The Windmill, the Bird I’ Th Hand and shortly the Fox & Hounds will broaden their appeal and ensure they are sustainable for the long-term.”