Regulars in revolt but firm has faith in its pub revamp

COMPANY SEEKS TO EASE CONCERNS OVER PLANS

- By LYNETTE PINCHESS

THE company behind controversial plans to change the feel of a village pub say their vision will "make it a pub the local community can be proud of".

Heineken-owned Star Pubs has moved to address the concerns of regulars, campaigners and parish councillors, who all say the revamp of the Horse & Groom, in Linby would have a detrimental impact.

Villagers have gathered more than 600 signatures on a petition presented to Gedling Borough Council to stop their unique, quirky local being turned into "another generic pub'. MP Michelle Welsh raised the matter in the House of Commons.

A spokesman for Star Pubs said: "Our intention is to invest in the Horse & Groom to make it a pub the local community can be proud of.

"The building will benefit from a fresh new look, including external redecoration and new signage.

"The interior of this much-loved community pub will see the installation of a new audiovisual system and more modern TVs, plus a brand-new sports area in a room which previously had limited use. Other areas of the interior will remain unchanged, with bar and dining areas for customers to enjoy.