Ribble Valley Inns (RVI), the Lancashire-based group behind the Three Fishes pub, has joined forces with Thwaites brewery for its second gastropub venture.
Catey-winning duo Nigel Howarth and business partner Craig Bancroft are set to complete the deal for The Highwayman at Nether Burrow on the borders of Lancashire and Cumbria within a fortnight.
The property, which is currently derelict, is due to open in 2008 after a £500,000 refurbishment. The pub is set to follow in the tradition of the group’s other property, the Three Fishes and focus on sourcing local produce.
Bancroft said: “We are very positive about the recent negotiations for the lease of this property and everything is online for a successful opening in early 2008. As with our other properties, the Highwayman will champion regionality, regional producers and British classics.”
Bancroft and Howarth, who also run the Michelin-starred Northcote Manor restaurant in Blackburn are also looking to secure a further three sites in Lancashire, Cumbria, Yorkshire, Cheshire and Derbyshire within the next five years.
Haworth to expand pub theme >>
Catey winner 2005: Pub and Bar Operator of the Year >>