ONE of the biggest pub operators in the country is set to revamp a grade II-listed building in the heart of Knutsford.

Marston's has signed an agreement with the landlord of the Grade II listed Old Town Hall, Monckton Properties, part of the Tatton Estate, to open a new bar/restaurant in the unit.

The Guardian understands the Revere Pub Company, the premium subsidiary of Marston’s Group, has signed the deal on the lease. 

Revere has a track record of transforming similar buildings, such as the former Stock Exchange in Birmingham, which has been widely praised.

Monckton will make a 'very significant' investment to repair the building. It will then pass the keys to Revere who will complete the fit-out.

The building, located at the end of Princess Street, was created by architect Alfred Waterhouse who designed Manchester Town Hall and the Natural History Museum, Kensington.

The building was financed by the Egerton family of Tatton Hall and its last use under the Egerton family was as a boy’s club.

Marston's has control of two pubs in Knutsford, the Builders Arms which it leases out and the nearby Legh Arms.

It also leases the Crown Inn on Main Road, Goostrey.

For the past two years the Old Town Hall has been home to the successful Knutsford Beer Festival and has staged exhibitions over the past 12 months.

In July 2012, national pub chain JD Wetherspoons denied claims that it was to make its first foray into the town by moving into the unit, following rumours spreading around the town.

The building was last occupied by furniture firm Allen and Appleyard who moved out in September 2011.

A planning statement – and not a planning application – revealed: "Take notice that application is being made by Marstons Estate Limited and Monckton Properties Limited in relation to planning and listed building consent for a change of use from retail (class A1) to bar/restaurant (class A4/A3), installation of external plant/extraction, external seating area with umbrellas, new shop front, disabled access ramp, internal alterations and associated works."

  • What do you think about a pub opening up in one of Knutsford's Grade II listed buildings?

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