Major six-figure refurbishment work begins at Staffordshire pub

A Lichfield pub has closed its doors as it undergoes a six-figure transformation to become a sports pub.

The Turnpike on Ryknild Street closed its doors on November 9 to allow for an exciting refurbishment to allow for the £300,000 work by Marston’s to turn it into a Grandstand Sports pub.

Marston’s said the Grandstand concept follows industry research revealing that 8.5 million consumers have watched live sport in pubs, with 86 per cent of fans preferring sports pubs for their atmosphere, better screens and sound, and the chance to connect with friends and family.

A spokesman for Marston’s said: “Located in Boley Park in Lichfield, the Turnpike is a community pub, perfectly positioned for locals and families to relax with a drink, catch the latest sports fixture, or refuel with some food, after browsing the nearby Boley Park shopping centre or exploring Lichfield’s historic city centre and its famous three-spired cathedral.

“The much-loved community pub will be transformed with new features designed to deliver a stadium-style experience on every visit.

“Marston’s has selected the Turnpike for the Grandstand transformation due to its strong involvement with local sports teams, community groups and charities.

“The refurbishment will create an exciting new proposition for sports fans from Lichfield and beyond.”

The refurbishment will include the installation of multiple massive screens, an immersive state-of-the-art sound system, and flexible tiered seating, while the pub will also be decorated with local sports memorabilia.

Once reopened on December 2, the pub will show all key sporting fixtures, including football, rugby, cricket, tennis, F1, darts, horse racing and more.

Regulation dartboards and pool tables will return alongside new competition leagues and free-to-play recreational sessions.

A new range of bar food will be introduced in the ‘Match Day Menu’, which will feature hand-held bites such as chicken wings and nachos, and pub favourites such as fish & chips, grills and burgers.

Local sports teams will be able to apply for a ‘Black Card’, giving them access to exclusive offers, endless chips on team nights and rewards for celebrating wins at their local.

Ashley Lloyd, Marston’s Operations Manager, said: “We are so excited about the plans to re-open as a Grandstand pub.

“We know our locals are sporting mad and can’t wait to be able to offer them the best possible experience when they can visit us again.”