I’ll drink to that! Boozer set for £365k makeover
A LANDMARK pub which has been shut for three years is set to reopen next year after a £365,000 refurbishment.
Subject to recruiting a new licensee, Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars is keen to invest the sum on The Westgate on the corner of Westgate and Union Street in Halifax town centre.
The work has been delayed because of the pandemic.
The project would upgrade the Grade II-listed pub into a stylish bar, enhancing the Piece Hall quarter.
The work would carefully renovate the building’s historic exterior, adding new signage, lighting and retractable awnings.
Newly-installed bifold doors and enlarged sash windows would open up The Westgate, enabling customers to watch the world go by.
Should the pedestrianisation of
Westgate go ahead, a pavement licence would also be sought for an area of cafe-style seating outside.
The investment would transform the inside of the pub, too, creating a contemporary bar and dining area on the ground floor and installing a commercial kitchen on the first floor to enable the introduction of food.
The Westgate dates back to the 18th century and was originally two houses with an attached weaving wing.
At one stage it became two separate pubs, but it merged with the former Town Hall Tavern in the 1960s. The building still has two cellars.
To complement the new menu, the cellar would receive an overhaul with equipment to ensure consistently perfect draught beer and cider.
The venue would have a stunning minimalist look, incorporating original exposed brickwork, modern artwork and quirky design features.
Other improvements include replacing the customer toilets, adding a staff room and redecorating and refitting the second-floor licensee accommodation. The venue would have all-day appeal, serving barista-quality coffee, a selection of premium wines, spirits and beers – with craft as a speciality – and a distinctive food menu.
Star Pubs & Bars area manager for Halifax, Anthony Briggs, said: “The delay to the scheme caused by the pandemic has been hugely disappointing. Now that restrictions are over, we’re eager to find a licensee to take over The Westgate and move the refurbishment forward with us.
“The Westgate is a well-known pub in a prominent location, so it’s a great opportunity for someone with experience wanting a quality bar in the heart of Halifax.”