PROMINENT CHELL PUB CLOSES FOR MAJOR REFURBISHMENT

2024 is off to a good start for Chell with news that work is set to begin on a £175,000 refurbishment of one of its last remaining local pubs.

The investment at The Hazlehurst Arms on Biddulph Road is being undertaken by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and new licensees Chell born-and-bred Kayleigh Lambert and her partner Lee Ryan. It will transform the rundown pub into a top quality local complete with a revamped sports bar.

January and is scheduled to reopen in mid February.^thThe Hazlehurst Arms closes for the works after last orders on 7

The project will carefully renovate the outside of the tired building – which dates back to 1906 – turning it into an attractive landmark of Chell that enhances the neighbourhood. Parts of the exterior will be repainted a heritage grey, and there will be new signage, lighting and planting.

The makeover will totally revamp the pub’s dated interior giving it a smart new look whilst bringing out its character and restoring features such as the old fire place and timber floors. The Hazlehurst Arms will have a warm welcoming lounge bar – decorated in classic colours with Victorian-style tiling and leather-effect deep button-backed seating – and a separate sports bar. This will be fitted out with a new pool table, darts and a high spec AV system screening Sky and TNT Sports.

Kayleigh and Lee are aiming to put The Hazlehurst Arms on the map for the quality of its drinks. To ensure consistently perfect pints, the duo are overhauling the cellar with a state-of-the-art dispense system. They will have three cask ales on tap. Lagers will range from Carling to Moretti and there will be an extensive selection of wines, spirits and soft drinks.

The couple want to return The Hazlehurst Arms to the busy popular pub that Kayleigh remembers growing up in Chell when her family were customers. To that end they are planning a multitude of activities to appeal to the whole community. On the cards are quiz nights, bingo, karaoke and entertainment as well as fundraisers in aid of local charities and coffee mornings for senior citizens. With the pub’s focus on sport, Kayleigh and Lee would also like to start up pool, darts and football teams and are keen to hear from anyone who would like to take part.

Says Kayleigh: “Back in the day The Hazlehurst was a hub of Chell. It’s been sad to see it loses its way and, with other pubs closing, many people have been concerned. Our ambition is to give residents a fantastic local they can be of proud of again.”

Adds Lee – who is giving up a job in stonework to take the helm: “The Hazlehurst Arms is in desperate need of TLC but has loads of potential. The investment is just what’s required. We’re already excited about reopening the doors and showing people their new look local.”

Comments Paul Alldis Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager: “We’re delighted to be investing in The Hazlehurst to help it to thrive for the long term. With some other pubs in the area having closed, it’s more important than ever. Coming from Chell, Kayleigh understands what it needs and what residents want. She and Lee have a real community spirit and are passionate about bringing The Hazlehurst back to life. We wish them all the best.”