£111,000 revamp for pub in bid to attract new landlord
BIG PLANS FOR NEEDLEMAKERS ARMS MAKE IT A ‘PERFECT OPPORTUNITY’
A NEW licensee is being sought to take over a pub in Ilkeston that’s set for a major revamp.
The Needlemakers Arms has been run by temporary operators since summer last year.
Bosses at Star Pubs & Bars - part of the global Heineken chain - now hope to secure a permanent licensee to lease the venue in Kensington Street.
Subject to this happening, the Needlemakers will undergo a £111,000 revamp.
There will also be food available, while a patio is expected to be created at the front of the pub.
A spokeswoman for Star Pubs & Bars said: “The revamp will upgrade The Needlemakers Arms into a great quality local and broaden its appeal, adding a kitchen so that food can be introduced.
“To meet the needs of the whole community, the pub will have a cosy lounge and dining area, a traditional bar and a separate games area complete with a new pool table, darts boards and AV system for screening sports.
“This space could also be used to host private functions.
“Outside, the project will create a 30-seater patio at the front of the pub to complement the spacious garden at the rear, giving it one of the best gardens in Ilkeston.
“The exterior of The Needlemakers Arms will be renovated and new lighting, signage and planting added to promote the pub’s change of direction.
“The Needlemakers Arms also benefits from a three-bedroom flat and a large customer car park.”
In June last year rent payments coupled with a lack of income during the pandemic lockdowns resulted in the pub having to close, with the previous licensees having handed in their notice.
The pub had undergone a £10,000 facelift in recent years.
Its availability is advertised on the Star Pubs & Bars website.
It’s described as a “popular community drinking pub with a welcoming, local feel” with footfall throughout the day and evening.
But prospective licensees face paying £22,444 in annual rent.
The Star Pubs & Bars spokeswoman added: “The Needlemakers Arms has lots of potential and the investment will give people many more reasons to visit.
“It is in a great location surrounded by housing, next to a convenience store and just five minutes from the town centre.
“It is the perfect opportunity for an experienced licensee, who knows Ilkeston and is looking for a pub of their own in the town.”