THE historic Sportsmans Arms at Penketh, Warrington, which was at one time threatened with demolition, is to be given a new lease of life by pub company NewRiver.
The pub on Warrington Road, which was earmarked as a site for a Netto supermarket earlier this year is to be refurbished and will introduce a new menu, as part of a proposals to build six new homes on unused land at the site.
NewRiver this week reassured locals who were worried they might lose the award-winning pub, which dates from 1846, saying ‘it ‘isn’t going anywhere’.
Tenant Joe Dodd, who has run The Sportsmans Arms for nine years with his wife Adrienne, said: “We want to reassure people that the future of pub is guaranteed, and this iconic building is to remain a community hub for the village.
“A new chef started last week, so we’re once again serving food, and we’re really keen for people to come and enjoy what we have to offer – great food and drink, live music, live sport on screen, and all in a friendly atmosphere.”
Jackie Moody-McNamara, NewRiver pub portfolio director, said: “We’re working closely with Joe and Adrienne to safeguard the future of The Sportsmans Arms.
“That will involve us looking to invest in the pub to improve it, and make it more even appealing to both existing and prospective new customers. It’s an example of the commitment we have to all our pubs, and we’ve put in place long-term investment plans to see them run as successful, sustainable businesses.
“Where appropriate, NewRiver will also look for opportunities for commercial and other developments at pub sites that have surplus land – for example, car parks that are now much larger than required, or adjacent space that has fallen into disuse.
NewRiver will submit plans to Warrington Borough Council for four three-bedroom and two four-bedroom private homes on unused land at the rear of The Sportsmans Arms.
Moody-McNamara added: “The proposed residential development will only involve surplus land, and will go a small way to providing much-needed housing in the area. Local people will not be losing their pub, and instead can look forward to a full calendar of future events, including around Christmas, New Year and, into 2017, Valentine’s Day.
“The Sportsmans Arms isn’t going anywhere.”
