Warrington-based multiple operator, Priory Inns North West has taken on its second site with Star Pubs & Bars, The Gardeners in Timperley which reopens this weekend following a £380k joint refurbishment.
This latest addition brings Priory Inns North West's pub estate to ten. Seven sites are leased and three freehold with seven pubs located in Warrington. The company is now looking to broaden its geographical spread to the wider north west.
Director Neil Sparkes said, 'What we do works. We've got no finite number for the size of our business going forward. Our expansion plans will be determined by getting the right team to work for us. They need to be good, happy, friendly staff focused on giving customers everything they want. We give staff the autonomy to deliver this.
'Finding pubs for our expansion plans shouldn’t be a problem as there are a lot of good pubs, like The Gardeners, and we've got a strong record, so pub companies like working with us. In our experience the leased and tenanted model works when you can put together a mutually beneficial deal where both parties make money.'
The investment has transformed the pub into a modern family friendly neighbourhood local broadening its appeal with the introduction of food. Sixteen new jobs have been created as a result.
The interior has been opened up to create a relaxed open plan space seating 120 with an island bar, feature wine ceiling art and screens throughout giving customers the option where to sit to eat, drink or watch sport. It will be given a more contemporary look with hanging pendant bulb lighting, parquet effect panelling and distressed paintwork on the walls.
Outside, the pub is being given a complete facelift re-rendered in a striking dark grey with new signage and planting and a new garden area created at the rear with covered pergola and festoon lighting, seating for 80 for alfresco eating and dining, and outdoor games to entertain children.
The kitchen has also been extended to enable the pub to offer fresh, home cooked food, the only pub in the area to do so. It offers a children's menu, and also a dog-friendly menu, which includes a special Sunday roast for dogs.
The drinks range includes premium draught lagers and ciders, an extensive selection 40 gins, wines for all budgets and a selection of cocktails.
The entertainment plans include Live Sky & BT Sports, a weekly pub quiz, acoustic music on a Friday and live bands on a Saturday.
Sparkes added, 'I could see the potential of The Gardeners immediately. It is in a lovely area and just needed to be updated and the underutilised garden given a makeover and made family friendly.'
David Pritchard, regional operations director, Star Pubs & Bars, said, 'We're delighted that Neil and his team have taken on The Gardeners. He has The White Hart in Warrington with us and has a great track record of turning around under-performing pubs.
'We wish him every success with this latest venture and look forward to future projects as he grows his North West based estate further.'