The New Albion to reopen in March after £230k investment

The New Albion pub on Liverpool Road is set to reopen with a new look and concept on 24 March. The pub’s existing team has been retained and will be supported by pub company Punch Pubs and Co, and new Management Partners, Stephen and Jake. The former Cookhouse Pub has been closed since mid-February as Punch Pubs make renovations as part of a £230k investment. With a huge focus on sports and entertainment, the new pub will boast a sports offering with the addition of 13 screens ready to showcase sporting events. The new partners have vast experience in the industry and are both local to Widnes, with their joint passion for pubs and people the driving force behind its transformation. Stephen said: “Jake and I are excited to get stuck in at the New Albion, to meet the team and the community and raise the profile of this incredible pub. We have so many plans up our sleeves and cannot wait to make an impact. “We know that sports have been a missed opportunity, but one which will play a huge role in the success of our pub. Moving forwards, our focus is on engaging as many local teams as possible, whilst also bringing that family-feel to make it an inclusive and safe space for all. “The investment plans are incredibly exciting, and we’re looking forward to bringing a fresh vibe – the New Albion is back, and it will be bigger and better than ever before!” As part of the investment with Punch, the New Albion will boast major renovations throughout, with an all new restaurant space, lounge and games room complete with pool table and darts, in addition to a private function room and a beer garden and outdoor bar to seat 150 guests. Stephen continued: “We’re so excited to see the outdoor space transformed, and we cannot wait to welcome the community to enjoy the sunshine with us. The outdoor bar will be a game-changer for the pub, it’ll be a place of comfort and relaxation, and with a renovated lounge area too, guests can enjoy celebrations and the camaraderie that comes with seeing their favourite sporting stars in action!” Guests can also enjoy a new food offering at the pub where pub classics meet new dishes from pies with buttery mash, or beer-battered fish and chips to chicken platters and salads. Entertainment will also play a role in the relaunch of the New Albion, as Stephen and Jake will revive the quiz night, while also introducing a line-up of live music and events throughout the year. Additionally, they will continue to foster the community spirit by hosting charity nights and fundraisers to raise awareness and support for local causes. Stephen said: “We’ve always said that we are here to operate the pub, but it’s nothing without the community behind it. We need the community to engage with us, and we know that the potential here is huge. The New Albion is what the town is looking for, and the changes so far are amazing – it’ll be well worth the wait and we, and the team, cannot wait to welcome guests old and new!” Punch Pubs and Co operations manager, Tina Igo, added: “We are thrilled to announce the reopening of the New Albion pub this March. Stephen, Jake, and the team have ambitious plans to ensure it remains the heart of the community and the positive feedback we’ve received on social media has been incredibly encouraging. Exciting times are ahead at the New Albion, and we can’t wait to welcome guests old and new on this journey with us.”