Biker’s bold plan to bring the Cat and Fiddle back to life
Biking pub could re-open after plans for redevelopment revealed
Famous biker meeting spot, the Cat & Fiddle pub, could be set for a makeover and revival if bold new plans get the go-ahead. Situated on the A537 between Buxton and Macclesfield, it closed in December 2015 after a series of unsuccessful tenancies. But now, serial entrepreneur and lifelong biker Peter Strutton has produced a detailed plan for the inn, which first opened in 1813, to be redeveloped as a motorcyclist and cyclist destination.
“My plan is for a ‘two-wheeled adventure hub’, aimed at not just bikers but also cyclists and hikers,” said Peter, 51. It would ultimately comprise not just a café, although this would come first, but also a workshop, storage area and event destination. “I’d heard it was empty and, as
I’d been considering moving into a motorcycle-type business, looked into it and went for a viewing. It was an awful day and it’s in an awful state but even so we were turning bikers away and it’d been closed for three years. I then started looking into it seriously.” The ‘adventure-hub’ plan is the result, currently being considered by owners Robinson’s Brewery. “They don’t want to sell it for the
‘It has the potential to be a great business’ ENTREPRENEUR PETER STRUTTON
moment. They want to lease it but not put too much money in.” Without Robinson’s financial help Strutton reckons a £400,000 investment will be required. Crowdsourced funding is another possible solution, with Peter very keen to work with other people. “This has the opportunity to be a wonderful biking community project and has the potential to be a great business, too.”