Leeds pub to get 'enormous garden with stunning views' as part of £420,000 revamp
A historic countryside pub is back on the map for a new generation of drinkers thanks to a £420,000 revamp.
The New Inn at Eccup has enjoyed a makeover showcasing the building’s character and charm – renovating features such as old beams, flagstone floors and a Yorkshire stone fireplace – whilst bringing it into the 21st century in terms of comfort and quality.
A second phase of works is now transforming the surrounding land is being turned into an enormous garden with stunning views, a children’s play area and a huge screen for the World Cup.
The refurbishment was a joint project with the pub’s new licensee Scott Westlake, who also runs the award-winning Myrtle Tavern in Meanwood.
He said: We’ve been overwhelmed by the response to The New Inn’s relaunch – trade is 30 per cent higher than we expected. It’s out in the countryside and it’s proving a real destination; customers are driving out from Leeds and Harrogate. Many people had happy memories of The New Inn in its heyday 20 years ago, and they’re coming back along with lots of new faces.
“The food is going down really well, and there’s a great mix of customers, from younger adults through to retirees. We’ve got loads more plans in the pipeline, from further improvements to the garden to some big outdoor events.”
The revamp is part of a multi million pound investment by Heineken UK with s £3.16 million being spent in Yorkshire with licensees adding a further £165,000 on top. 88 new jobs are being created as a result.
Lawson Mountstevens, managing director of Star Pubs who are part of Heineken UK, said: “Pubs are a fantastic institution, admired the world over. We’re proud to be a leading investor in Britain’s independently operated locals and to be playing a part in securing their future along with our dedicated and entrepreneurial licensees.
“Investment is essential if pubs are to remain a first choice for people looking for somewhere to socialise. It is also critical for pubs needing to generate extra revenue to fund the sustained increases in running costs they’ve faced in recent years. However, we can only do so much; the root-and-branch reform of business rates that the industry has been calling for over many years is urgently required, as well as a lowering of the burden of taxation on pubs – including VAT and beer duty. We are calling on the Government to support us in bringing out the best in the Great British pub.
“Importantly, this investment will create flexible job opportunities in communities across Yorkshire and the country more widely and give many young people their first taste of the world of work.”