Brewing giant Heineken is eyeing further investment in Highland pubs as it prepares to give one of the oldest bars in Inverness a £450,000 makeover.
Blackfriars is among 14 of the 260 Scottish hostelries owned by the group’s Star Pubs & Bars leasing arm undergoing “major transformational refurbishments” this year, at a total cost of £4.4 million.”
Closed since last September, the Blackfriars building on Academy Street dates to 1793.
Star’s plans for it include “boutique bedrooms” above the bar.
The firm has said the refurbishment, due to start this summer, will “improve the pub’s visual appeal and modernise the facilities without compromising Blackfriars’ established reputation or period charm”.
The company said it had “experienced operators” lined up to take on the tenancy.
Star operations director Mick Howard said: “The project at Blackfriars will be a major investment to create a great pub serving outstanding food on the ground floor, with boutique bedrooms above.
“We hope to be able to start work in August/September time and anticipate it will take four to five months to complete.”
Mr Howard added: “We hope to be investing further in Highland pubs in 2019.”
The White Cockade, in Aberdeen’s Torry area, is getting a £120,000 upgrade.
Mr Howard said: “We will be redecorating throughout and upgrading the pub with a fantastic new look to make it more comfortable and welcoming for customers.
“Work will be starting in the next couple of weeks.”
