Pageant pub to reopen after takeover
THE Pageant pub in Kew is to have a radical relaunch as a Hickory’s Smokehouse.
Hickory’s, which runs six other restaurants around the country, is planning a major refurbishment of both the interior and exterior of the historic building.
The restaurant specialises in food from the Southern states, such as slow cooked chicken wings and smoked barbecue beef ribs, and already operates in locations including Chester and West Kirby. The company specialises in burgers, steaks, gumbo (a hot and spicy stew), mac ’n’ cheese, and much more.
The Pageant had been due to reopen last month, but the plans were cancelled just hours before the planned relaunch.
It was last open in April, when it was originally stated that it would close for a few weeks while damage caused by a burst pipe was repaired.
However, previous landlords Anthony and Rachel Bluthner never reopened the pub.
Less than three weeks ago, signs appeared in the pub’s windows, stating it would reopen under new management, only for those to be replaced by ones saying the relaunch was delayed for refurbishment.
It is now apparent that this was linked to the takeover and The Visiter can reveal that the work will include the building of an extension to create more space, improve wheelchair access, and redesigning of the kitchen and public spaces.
Plans for the development show the expanded Folkestone Road pub with Hickory’s branding.
An application submitted for the work states that the pub will undergo a complete refurbishment to bring it up to modern standards.
The pub already must compete locally with The Thatch and Thistle and The Richmond, and will soon also have to contend with the Old Duke when that opens near the Tesco Superstore in October.
The application states: “The premises has operated for many years as a pub/restaurant.
‘‘The layout of the building has the kitchen and prepara- tion/storage areas to the rear and the bar and restaurant areas to the front leading onto the beer garden/play area.
“The family-friendly nature of the proposal will ensure that the Pageant will remain a viable proposition and enable it to continue providing a valuable pub/restaurant service to the local community.
“The proximity of large residential areas make the Pageant a sustainable location for the development.
“Locals will be able to walk and cycle to the pub/restaurant and enjoy good food and beer in a modern setting.”
The proposals will now be decided on by Sefton Council’s planning committee.