Pub to undergo refurbishment
A MAJOR refurbishment to reopen a landmark Halifax pub after a three-year closure is now planned for 2022, having been delayed by the pandemic.
Subject to recruiting a new licensee, Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars is keen to invest £365,000 in The Westgate on the corner of Westgate and Union Street.
The project is looking to upgrade the Grade II listed pub into a stylish bar, enhancing the Piece Hall quarter.
Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager for Halifax, Anthony Briggs said: “The delay to the scheme caused by the pandemic has been hugely disappointing. Now that restrictions are over, we’re eager to find a licensee to take over The Westgate and move the refurbishment forward with us. The Westgate is a wellknown pub in a prominent location, so it’s a great opportunity for someone with experience wanting a quality bar in the heart of Halifax.”
The work would renovate the building’s historic exterior, adding new signage, lighting and retractable awnings. Newly installed bi-fold doors and enlarged sash windows would open up The Westgate, enabling customers to watch the world go by.
Should the pedestrianisation of Westgate go ahead, a pavement licence would also be sought for an area of café-style seating outside.
The investment would transform the inside of
The Westgate creating a contemporary bar and dining area on the ground floor and installing a commercial kitchen on the first floor so the pub can serve food.
Other improvements include replacing the customer toilets, adding a staff room and redecorating and refitting the second-floor licensee accommodation. Mr Briggs added: “Halifax has really bounced back after the lockdowns and is building on its reputation for unique independent businesses and fantastic food and drink.
“We want to make The Westgate an asset to Halifax again, a place that caters for all occasions, whether customers are after a morning coffee, a light lunch or a great night out.”
The Westgate dates back to the 18th century.