New village set for first pub

A newly-built village in West Yorkshire is set to open its first community amenity — a pub — in the site of a former Webster's Brewery.

There are now 50 families living in the Fountain Head Village, but they are so far without amenities.

A scheme to convert a 17th-century house on the edge of the village into a pub is awaiting consent from Calderdale Council. If approved, Penny Hill, a new company set up to operate the pub, will reopen the disused site by the end of August.

Operations director Ian Conlon, who is involved in running 16 other pubs in the region, said the firm didn't anticipate any objections. "We have already appointed the licensees. We won't be making any physical alterations to the building, though we may make some to the grounds and add a car park. We hope to offer a carvery after three weeks."

The house, which was used by Webster's Brewery as a museum, already has a bar fitted.

Grant Stott, from architects Stott Thompson, said: "It is the perfect location, right at the edge of the village, to encourage passing trade and still be within walking distance for villagers."

A decision is expected by 25 August.