Shepherd Neame pub gets potential 'smokeasy'.

Shepherd Neame has unveiled its first potential 'smokeasy' after a £100,000 refit at one of its pubs.

The Bricklayers in Bromley now has a two-storey outside seating area, which - subject to the Government's smoke-ban guidelines - will become a smokeasy once the ban is introduced.

The brewer says the pub, run by its longest serving licensees George and Pam Pearson, is now well-equipped to provide outdoor facilities for smokers.

George Pearson said: "The brewery came to us with an idea to convert a derelict garage area at the back of the pub and it is now a smart, covered area with a mezzanine floor which opens out on one side to provide cover and protection from the wind. ​

"The area is decorated with planters, and there are heaters to provide extra warmth.

"As well as providing an outside area for eating and drinking, it will be a useful facility for our many smoking customers when the smoking ban comes into force next year."​

Bill Gibson​ via email 10/04/2006"I would offer a word of on such a conversion if Scotland is to be used as a yardstick. Any sheltered area must not exceed 50% covered area including any perimeter walls etc. Even if you have tables sun shades, they calculate the total covered area when all shades are erected.

There is going to be a huge oncost for running propane heaters...who is going to foot the bill for this. Yet again..Global Warming is being accelerated as a result of idiotic Government decision making.

The real answers lie in Freedom to Choose, namely Ventilation, Air Filtration linked to Indoor Air Quality Standards with options on Controlled Designated Smoking Areas."

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