Major revamp of two county pubs

The Salway Arms, near Ludlow, is to undergo a refurbishment that could cost up to £1 million, as part of a big expansion plan.

The Bridgewater Arms Brewers Fayre, in Harmer Hill, Shrewsbury, will close its doors for a £400,000 revamp, which will create 15 new jobs.

Today Franck and Louise Choblet, the restaurateurs behind the Salway Arms refit, said their money would be spent as part of a joint project with Punch Taverns.

Mr Choblet said: "We want to completely refurbish the Salway Arms and also open six deluxe bedrooms for guests.

"The Salway Arms will become a food-led venue and a very experienced team will be providing high quality gastro-pub style food.

"This is part of a larger expansion plan for us. We are also looking to increase our property portfolio by acquiring another hotel. We are looking at venues in the county and in neighbouring counties."

Meanwhile, the Bridgewater Arms Brewers Fayre in Harmer Hill, Shrewsbury, will close on Sunday, July 8 and have its interior completely transformed. The pub, which currently employs 15 staff, is due to reopen on August 13.

The new look will involve the Bridgewater Arms dropping the Brewers Fayre brand and will also include abandoning the open plan style in favour of more intimate alcoves and booths, wood panelling, low level lighting and soft furnishing.

The new menu will include chef specials, classic pub favourites and a contemporary fusion of dishes.

To celebrate, general managers Mark and Dee Pritchard will be inviting people to provide feedback at a series of special "taste testing" sessions which are planned for when the site has reopened.

Mrs Pritchard said: "Our existing customers, as well as those who have not visited us before, will certainly not be disappointed."

By Andy Richardson and Sarah Bullock