Bosses of a town centre pub have revealed ambitious plans for the future after a takeover.
The Observer reported last month how The Calder in Accrington suddenly closed for several weeks after its previous owners went into liquidation – and then reopened before Christmas.
The keys to the pub on Blackburn Road have now been handed to Zeklar Limited and bosses have told the Observer that they want to restore the venue to its former glory.
Andy Edmondson, general manager, said: “This pub used to do very, very well and people have seen it have a steady decline.
“We want to get it back to how it was and get all the right ingredients.
“We are gradually trying to get the business fit for purpose. It’s a work in progress and as each day and week passes it is getting better and better.
“We need to get the news out there by word of mouth that we are open. Everybody is fed up of seeing things closing.
“This pub is in a fantastic location and a lot of people are so glad to see it reopen.
“I’m looking for that unique selling point and want to chase the late night venue aspect and have it as a focal point for live entertainment of various types.”
Andy, who has 25 years’ experience working in Harvester, Beefeater and Premier Inn, said they have taken on 10 staff and hope to double the number of employees by the summer.
Thousands of pounds is being invested to modernise and redecorate the pub including a new music system, flooring, kitchen with all work being carried out by local tradesmen.
Andy said they want to host amateur and professional bands, comedians, specialist DJs and make the pub available to the town’s two pool leagues.
He said: “I think there are genuinely some really good opportunities here.
“There’s no reason that by next Christmas this won’t be a £1.5 million business. It’s about the community supporting each other.
“It’s a massive building and we are right outside the Town Hall. There’s no reason why we can’t be holding wedding receptions for civil ceremonies and buffets for networking meetings. The list of opportunities are endless.
“We want to wow people and make them feel special and listened to.”
Future events planned including a Valentine’s Weekend and an official launch night party on Saturday, February 6.
