Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, visited the Parks Inn in Harpur Hill to toast its reopening following the easing of the lockdown, and to learn more about the new safety measures in place. 

The pub underwent a £205,000 revamp by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars at the end of 2019, and recently reopened with heightened safety measures.

The Parks Inn is just one of 2,500 pubs in Heineken’s Star Pubs & Bars business that has implemented such safety measures since the 4th July reopening. This includes encouraging customers to use an app called Swifty, through which orders and payments can be made, with drinks and food being delivered to the table.

The heightened health and safety measures for each of the 2,500 pubs are being provided on top of a £21m in rent concessions for publicans.

Robert spoke with local licensees Kathy Cable and Charlie Smith about the new safety measures, the value of their pub in the community, and how they adapted their business to serve takeaway meals throughout lockdown. 

Robert Largan MP commented: 

“I always enjoy visiting Harpur Hill. It was great to catch up with Charlie and Kathy and see the fantastic refurb job they’ve done. Please do support our fantastic local businesses if you are able to do so.”

Licensees Kathy and Charlie added: 

“It was great to be able to show Robert how we have made the pub safe for customers and staff. The support from Star Pubs & Bars has really helped us to reopen, and we are over the moon to have customers enjoying the pub again.”

Lawson Mountstevens, managing director of Star Pubs & Bars said:

“This support package will help build the public’s confidence in pubs like The Parks Inn as a safe and responsible place to meet friends, and enjoy a pint and bite to eat.

“We want to see all pubs open and trading, and showcase the vital role they play in their communities.”