Canalside Anchor Inn in Salterforth to reopen after £169,000 refurbishment from Star Pubs
Building work is due to begin at a popular canalside pub in Salterforth next week as part of plans to reopen the venue following a six-month closure.
The Anchor Inn, near Colne, is due to undergo a £169,000 refurbishment from Monday, September 21st, with the pub expected to reopen in mid-October.
The work is being carried out by Heineken-owned Star Pubs in partnership with new lessee Karen Robertson, while her sister-in-law, Katie Williamson is moving from Edinburgh to manage the venue. She already works in the hospitality industry.
Karen plans to run the pub as a family and dog-friendly venue aimed at local residents as well as walkers and people using the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.
She said she was attracted to the pub because of its canalside location and history.
“From the moment I first visited, I fell in love with The Anchor Inn, its rich heritage, and the wonderful history that makes it such a special place.
“The Anchor Inn has a beautiful canal side setting in an area I greatly admire. Katie and I are fortunate to have family nearby, which makes this opportunity even more meaningful.
“As a family-run pub, we want to create a warm, welcoming place where everyone feels at home.”
Plans include a new food menu based around fresh, local produce, alongside live music, themed evenings, live sports and darts.
The refurbishment will include a complete makeover of the interior, with new and refurbished furniture, updated flooring, lighting, blinds and decoration.
The ladies' toilets will also be refurbished, including new cubicles, vanity units, flooring and wallpaper.
Outside, new tables and benches, an outside bar, windbreak and festoon lighting are planned. There are also plans for a children's play area to be installed in the new year.
Katie said she was looking forward to becoming involved in the local community.
She added: “I cannot wait to get to know local residents, become part of the community, and play an active role in supporting local events, groups, and initiatives.”
Chris Newsham, Star Pubs’ business development manager, said the investment would improve the pub for existing customers while supporting its reopening.
The refurbishment forms part of a wider £44.5m. investment by Heineken UK in upgrading and reopening pubs this year.