A popular Pudsey pub that has been closed for three years is set to reopen next year with a £370,000 refurbishment.
The Bankhouse, in Bankhouse Lane, shut in January 2020 but will open again in mid-February 2023 - bringing to an end residents' concerns for its future.
The project is being carried out by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and new licensee Richard Thewlis. Work starts on January 9th with the pub set to open its doors to the public once again the following month.
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Richard, who grew up in West Riding pubs run by his parents, said that the pub was "crying out for TLC and investment" and believes this refurbishment is what is needed to bring it back to life again.
The work will see the outside of the beautiful stone-built pub renovated, adding new signage and lighting. The overgrown garden will also be overhauled with new seating for 180 people, pretty planting, and festoon lighting.
The interior of the pub will be upgraded throughout according to a spokesperson for the pub. They added that the “original features such as the fireplace, flagstone floors, and wood paneling will be retained and complemented by a new décor incorporating heritage colour.”
Trained chef, Richard plans to make food a focal point at The Bankhouse. The menu will include affordable meals made from scratches such as meat & potato pie, lamb suet pudding and Sunday roasts.
Richard wants to put The Bankhouse on the map for its drink, too, and it will offer a carefully selected choice of wines, spirits, and beers. Cask ales will be a specialty.
He said: “The Bankhouse is an idyllic old pub in a picturesque location. I fell in love with it as soon as I walked in. It’s got a wonderful atmosphere but it’s in a sorry state and crying out for TLC and investment. The refurbishment is just what’s needed to bring it back to life. The Bankhouse has been sadly missed by people; I want to make it an asset to the community once again.”
Richard, who was born and bred in Roberttown, Kirklees, is said to have transformed the fortunes of The Railway at Drighlington when he took it over in 2008.
The Bankhouse is his second pub in the area. Luke Morton, manager of The Railway, will help Richard run The Bankhouse.
Jon Kelly, Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager added: “Richard has built a fantastic reputation for The Railway, and I’m confident he will do the same at The Bankhouse. He knows the area and really understands what people want. He’s just the person needed to revitalise the pub. We’re delighted to be working with him.
“Plans for The Bankhouse were delayed by the pandemic and its aftermath, but it’s reopening will be worth the wait. It will be a fantastic local for those living nearby and a destination country pub with a gorgeous garden for people from further afield.”
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