My plan for the Ban

Andy Longman

Suburban Style Bar Horsforth

Leeds

Ownership: Bar operator Suburban Style Bar Company, on a lease from a private landlord.

Action taken: A new shelving unit has been fitted for customers to leave their drinks when they go out for a cigarette. It's located adjacent to the door so it can be watched by the person outside. Special buttons have been installed that customers can press to alert staff to the fact that they need service. The floor has been polished and given a titanium finish. In addition, lighting has been fitted outside and free wi-fi is offered. There is also a new coffee machine. Hand-pulled ales have been introduced for the first time as part of a re-vamping of the drinks selection.

Cost: Around £20,000

Any problems: Plans for an outside decking area, to stop people smoking by the main road, were thrown out after the application for planning permission was rejected.

Advice for other licensees: "It really will be a case of the fittest will survive, and that means the ones that can afford to invest." Longman, managing director of Suburban Style Bar Company, recommended ways to retain customers and attract new ones, including live music, open mic nights and improving the drinks offering. "Give the place a damned good clean and by that I mean wash the curtains, get a someone in to clean the seats and carpets; and if need-be a lick of paint here and there," he added.

What's your Plan for the Ban?

Call John Harrington on 01293 610481