Local resident Wesley Burke, who had never run a pub before taking over the Longford Engine, said the investment would “breathe new life” into the pub.
Refurbishment work has included a new kitchen allowing the venue to introduce a food offering, while the interior has new fixtures and fittings, fully refurbished toilets and a restored conservatory.
Outside, the garden area, which backs onto the canal, has been “enhanced” while new signage has “significantly improved” the pub’s exterior.
Great potential
“I’ve lived in the area all my life so I knew the potential this pub had,” said Burke.
“There is a vibrant community around here but the pub has been lacking investment and was underused as a result. I spoke to my regional manager about my ambitions for the pub and he fully supported the idea of a refurbishment.”
Community in mind
Ei Publican Partnerships regional manager Peter Hooker added: “We’re always delighted when someone from the local area takes on a pub and has a vision with the local community in mind.
“Wesley has been a very dedicated publican since he took on the Longford Engine, so we were keen to support his ambitions.”
The Longford Engine, which opened on Friday (16 June), offers food, including traditional dishes, alongside a daily special, allowing the locals to provide feedback on what they like, shaping the menu for the future.