RINGING THE RIGHT BELLS IN TICEHURST
With an estimated 52 pubs closing every week across the UK, publicans are desperately searching for a recipe for success. The owners of The Bell in the heart of the village of Ticehurst in East Sussex think they have found one. Their plans for re-opening The Bell, which closed two years ago, include creating a stylish, 11-bedroom hotel and fine food restaurant.
In early July almost 400 local people came along to view the plans, which include an extension to the grade II listed building to extend the bar and restaurant area and create additional guest rooms. Further accommodation will be provided in guest lodges within the pub grounds.
The Open Days were promoted through the distribution of innovatively designed ‘beer mats’, and on the hoardings surrounding the pub which double-up as a notice board for community events. The Bell also has a website, including landlord’s ‘blog’, so that dialogue with local people can continue throughout its £2m facelift.
Visitors who attended the open days held in The Bell’s Assembly Room were able to comment on the proposals over a barrel of Harveys. Many could remember holding their wedding and Christening celebrations in same room years before, and are eager to return to celebrate further anniversaries in the years to come.
The response was resoundingly positive: feedback responses indicated unanimous support for the scheme and the planning application has now been submitted.
Thursday 30 July 2009
Parmalink:
http://www.quatro-pr.co.uk/The-Bell-Consultation
