Shropshire Star

Shrewsbury pub re-opens after £465k transformation

A Shrewsbury pub has re-opened following a major investment which has also created 18 new jobs.

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Punch development manager, Dolores Quigley and publican Victoria Martin outside the Steam Wagon

The Steam Wagon in Mount Pleasant Road, has undergone a £465,000 transformation by independent pub owners, Punch, alongside new publican Victoria Martin.

The pub now celebrates its name with its very own steam engine above the external pub sign which steams and whistles, welcoming customers as they approach.

Punch’s regional operations director, Tony Pilley said: “This is a substantial investment by Punch in a well-established community pub, and we are really pleased with the new look created. Victoria has lots of plans for the pub and we are looking forward to working together to ensure The Steam Wagon continues to go from strength to strength."

It has also undergone a major renovation to create a more open plan, family-friendly pub. Changes have included a full internal refurbishment creating a contemporary look with a new layout for the bar and lounge areas.

The outside space has been improved with the original decked area being fully lit with festoon lighting and new furniture, and a further garden created at the front of the pub with more seating.

The Steam Wagon is landlady Victoria’s first pub with Punch and the investment has created 18 new jobs.

She has a wealth of experience in hospitality and is passionate about creating a pub which is welcoming to all.

“I’m really excited to be here at The Steam Wagon, the pub looks fantastic and I can’t wait to welcome customers, old and new through the doors," she said.

"I have some big plans to ensure the Steam Wagon becomes the hub of the community.”

The pub launches with a brand-new menu and will show all key sporting events.

There is also a host of community events already planned, including raffles, live entertainment and family fun days.

Punch owns and operates 1,300 pubs across England, Scotland and Wales and is investing £32 million in its pub estate in the next year.