A major revamp of a pub in Clifton has been welcomed by local residents who say they are awaiting its return. Neighbours say they are looking forward to the completion of work on the Crusader, in Hartness Road, after a £300,000 revamp started earlier this month.
The investment is being undertaken by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and will see local publican Emily Hemsley take on the pub. Emily has over ten years hospitality experience, most recently at the Gedling Inn and knows Clifton well as her parents live near the pub. New jobs are being created and a food menu will be introduced. Local residents shared their views on the pub's revamp.
Nottinghamshire Live previously reported on the plans for the site.
READ MORE: 'Tired-looking' Clifton pub to undergo £300,000 facelift
Dave Whitehead, 63 is originally from Clifton. Now retired, Dave used to go into the Crusader.
Dave said: “Years ago I used to use the pub, it was a good one and then it got worse.
“I’ll give it a look and see if it’s nice when the pub opens. I used to watch football there.”
Dave continued: “McDonald's used to be the Manner Trent. There’s only about two or three pubs in Clifton left, every where's changing to food places and traditional pubs are on their way out.”
Outside, the tired-looking pub will be given a complete with new signage, lighting and planting. The patio and covered smoking areas are also being overhauled and new furniture installed.
Inside, The Crusader is being refurbished throughout to give it a brighter, smarter more contemporary stylish look and feel.
Local resident Jared Ahmed, 32 thinks the revamp of the pub will look good for the area. The dental assistant said where the pub is located is “bare”.
Jared said: “I think around here is a bit bare, there’s the Premier Corner shop which is used lots but a pub is needed, especially in this part of Clifton. When it’s finished, I’ll go in and have a look. A lot of places are crying out for pubs at the moment.”
Jared continued: “I think a lot of people in the area will support it when it opens. It’s a positive thing to see the pub come back.”
A wide selection of premium wines, spirits, and beers as well as cask and craft ales and Heineken 0.0 will be available. A new coffee machine is also being installed so customers will be able to enjoy barista-style coffee throughout the day.
Rose Winter, 44 is a designer. Rose has lived in Clifton for 12 years. Originally from Loughborough, Rose said: “There are a lot of families around here so instead of using the fast food outlets down the road, a family pub lunch can be back on the cards.
“I used to go in the Crusader when it was open, a lovely pub got a bit rowdy at night but lovely all the same. With new management and a new look, I think most people will be interested to see how it turns out, it’s a lot of money that’s going into it.”
Speaking previously, Ms Hemsley said: "I am looking forward to moving to The Crusader, getting to know local residents and becoming part of the community. I am excited at the prospect of running a pub of my own for the first time and to be giving The Crusader a new lease of life and a new direction.
“Knowing the area well and having family nearby, I leapt at the chance to take it on. I am keen that The Crusader offers good quality affordable food and great service broadening its appeal to families and offering something for everyone.”
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