Six-figure re-development for historic pub

One of Huddersfield’s oldest pubs will relaunch under a new name next month, following a major six-figure investment from its owners.

What was originally founded as The Commercial in Holmbridge in 1809, was bought by Gary and Karen Smith in 2014 in a state of disrepair. They subsequently turned it into local pub and brasserie, The Bridge.

But after five years of trading, the couple will now complete a second-round of renovations at the end of June – carried out by contractors, Byram Construction. The pub will be unveiled as The Pickled Pheasant at an open evening on Friday 5 July.

The six-months of building work have seen a five-strong team from Byram Construction transform The Bridge’s former on-site brewery, into a new 600-sq ft bar area – complete with open fire.

An additional 1,200 sq ft of derelict living space has been converted into four hotel bedrooms to attract visitors from across the UK. And 400 sq ft of staff quarters have also been upgraded.

The refurbishment and conversion work has doubled the size of the pub.

As the property is listed, Byram Construction operated within strict planning stipulations. The natural stone materials taken down as part of the brewery demolition have been used within the extension of the new bar area.

The Smiths previously transformed Holmfirth’s White Hart into Brambles in 2011 – before selling it in March 2018 to the Harvey’s Group, to focus on growing The Bridge’s reputation.

Commenting on the renovation and re-brand, Gary Smith said: “Our vision is to create a quality country pub and hotel destination, where local people and visitors, who want to enjoy the Peak District and the village of Holmfirth, can feel equally welcome.

“One of our regulars, for example, has created a walking route guide for tourists, which we will be putting in the rooms for people to use at their leisure.

“There are thousands of pubs shutting each month, and yet, most people are longing for a good quality pub to spend time in.

“So, we want to create something that Karen and I would love to visit ourselves – it’s important to us that we offer something high-end.

“The building work is of an exceptional high finish, we couldn’t be happier with what Byram Construction have done.”

Karen Smith added: “We are delighted that our vision is coming to life and we can finally feel everything pulling together.

“We’ll be ready to open on Friday 5 July and we’re looking forward to showing people what our brilliant staff have been working so hard on – thanks to our manager Danielle and her team.

“We also want to thank our unbelievably loyal customers who’ve been patient while the building work has been underway.”

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