A PUB in the heart of Reading is undergoing a £200,000 revamp which will see it reverting back to its former name.
After taking on new management, The Gateway pub on Greyfriards Road, close to Reading Station, has closed as work begins on an overhaul.
Previously known as The Railway Tavern, the pub is set to revert to its old name when it re-opens at the end of November with a new look and improved offerings.
As well as creating 12 new jobs, new licensees say the refit will bring the feel of a “classic London city pub”, including new bar, lounge, and entertainment areas.
The pub is now to be run by Dave Kesterton and Jason Walters of Stormy Pub Company and Heineken-owned Star Pubs.
The Stormy Pub Company also heads up The Victoria, in Tilehurst; The Forester’s Arms, in Brunswick Street; and The Mill House, in Thatcham.
Mr Kesterton said: “There are lots of bars in Reading but no traditional pubs. With the new town centre development taking place opposite and the station walking distance, we wanted to offer residents, commuters and shoppers something different to what’s already available.
“The Railway Tavern will have great coffee in the day and live entertainment in the evening. The pub is in a fantastic location whether that’s for a drink, bite to eat, coffee or a fun evening.
“We’re looking forward to opening the doors with a full schedule of entertainment in the run up to Christmas which we’ll share more about nearer the time.”
He explained: “I first moved to Reading in 2016 to run The Victoria for four weeks only–nine years later and I am still here.
“Reading is a great place where people love to socialise, which is ideal for our latest venture which will give people even more reason to come out.
“There are lots of bars in Reading but no premium pubs–we want to offer residents, commuters and shoppers something different to what’s already available in Reading, a more premium experience.”
Star Pubs’ Business Development Manager Andrew Downie said: “Dave and Jason have been running the pub on a temporary basis for a number of months so have a real feel for the pub and its potential.
“They already know Reading and the surrounding area well as they have a number of other different styles of pub in the vicinity from a community local to a food pub, giving them all the know-how they need for The Railway Tavern.
“We’re delighted to be co-investing with Dave and Jason to give The Railway Tavern a new lease of life.
“It’s part of a £40m investment that HEINEKEN UK is making this year in the UK upgrading and reopening pubs.”
