Pub operators to add microbreweries

Microbreweries are to be added to two freehouses following their acquisition by experienced operators.

Licensee Mark Hey has plans to convert the 13th century Old Chapel Inn in Devon into as carbon neutral a business as possible, with a microbrewery among facilities including recyclable design and eco cabins on site, subject to investors coming on board.

And the Horse and Jockey in Chorlton Green, Manchester will also soon have a microbrewery after Peter Dalton took on the freehold from Punch Taverns.

Dalton, who previously operated the iconic Manto bar in the city's Canal Street, has invested around £300,000 in a complete refurbishment of the business, which included the addition of a 40-cover restaurant.

After completing the purchase of the pub at the end of September, Peter now plans to further develop the business with the addition of six boutique bedrooms and a microbrewery within the site's former brewery tower.

The Old Chapel Inn, which is grade-II listed and situated in a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, in the village of St Anns Chapel, was recently acquired by Hey, and is currently closed.

The licensee previously operated the Wookey Hole Inn and the Devonshire Angel in Somerset, and the Sunrooms in Essex, before taking three years out of the industry.

Both acquisitions were made through Christie + Co.