The Railway Tavern in Longfield - the village’s only pub - is closing from tomorrow (October 16) for "major" refurbishment.
The £195,000 refurbishment, by new licensees, Brad and Maria Read and Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Bars, hopes to upgrade The Railway to a “great quality village local” - broadening its appeal.
Brad and Maria have been running The Cock Inn in Halstead, which in spite of the pandemic, they have turned around since taking it on three years ago.
Their plans for The Railway Tavern, which is next to the station, include showing live sports, hosting live music on a weekends, starting a darts team and putting on events including regular quizzes.
Funds are being spent overhauling the tired and dated interior, giving the pub a smart classic look and feel with new flooring, panelled walls, lighting, fireplace, and furniture.
Included, will be a rustic traditional Spanish style tapas bar with wooden and tiled flooring and high bar stools.
Outside, The Railway Tavern is being redecorated in mushroom and grey-blue colours with new signage, lighting and planting and picnic benches smartening the exterior.
There will also be a stretch tent covered area at the side of the pub with seating and patio heaters for alfresco eating and drinking.
Items will see food and coffee introduced for the first time, including Spanish Tapas.
Eight new jobs are being created on the back of the changes.
In addition to Spanish style tapas, The Railway Tavern will offer pub favourites - burgers and pies. Drinks wise, there will be cask ales, craft beer and a premium range of spirits and wines as well as cocktails.
There will also be barista style coffee and cakes.
Brad Read told the News Shopper: “We are thrilled to be taking on the Railway Tavern and transforming it into somewhere the whole community can use.
“We have already been walking around introducing ourselves to local businesses and have been encouraged by the positive feedback about our plans.
“We can’t wait to open the doors and get to know everyone properly.
“We want to give people reasons to go out and enjoy themselves – whether that’s a drink, a bite to eat or an event.
“We’re hoping that the changes and the emphasis on weekend entertainment will mean that people can stay local when they go out.”
Star Pubs & Bars area manager, Luke Cherrington said: “We’re delighted that Brad and Maria are taking on the Railway Tavern. They’ve done a great job turning around The Cock Inn.
“Having lived locally for six years, they know the area well and understand what people want.
“The investment is part of £42m that Star Pubs & Bars is investing in revamps this year, reflecting two long-term trends that have been accelerated and amplified by the pandemic – pubgoers’ increasing demand for premiumisation and outdoor socialising.
“People also now want the kind of experience on their doorstep that they’d previously had to travel to enjoy. And that’s what Brad and Maria will be providing – I wish them well.”
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