Derelict Chorley pub reopens after revamp part-funded by council
A derelict pub in Lancashire has reopened after a renovation of almost £350,000, partly funded by the local council.
Chorley Borough Council (CBC) said it bought the White Hart pub in Chorley, which is next to the town hall, more than 10 years ago.
The site was bought with a plan to extend the town hall but that never happened.
The pub has been revamped by CBC and Tony Fitzgerald, who will run it.
Councillor Peter Wilson, the council's deputy leader, said the venue, which includes a VIP area and restaurant, would boost the town's night-time economy and create 15 jobs.
He said: "We thought it was right to invest in the building to improve its condition so that someone would be willing to take on the lease and bring a derelict building back into use.
"It's important we do our bit to help regenerate the town centre."
Mr Fitzgerald, who invested £100,000 into the overhaul of the pub on Mealhouse Lane, said: "It's a big investment but I believe it is going to work.
"Chorley does need something like this; we need to attract people to Chorley."