New landlord of troubled pub reveals details of £350,000 relaunch plan
THE new owner of troubled Lymington pub the Fusion Inn has unveiled plans for a £350,000 makeover, including a fresh name.
The Fusion Inn, which has been closed for three years, is to reopen in June with a new name and a new landlord.
Work on a complete refurbishment, inside and out, started on Monday. It is to be renamed The Sail Inn.
Outside will be a new entrance, new signage and lighting. The garden is being landscaped with new tables and chairs seating 40, and a sheltered area with ‘festoon’ lighting.
Inside, the pub will be given a modern, contemporary look, with seating for 100.
The bar is being reduced, although the pub’s two open fires and wood panelling are to be retained and the original brickwork exposed.
There will be a nautical theme, with surfing and sailing pictures, and a mix of mustard, yellow and burnt-orange chairs, booth-style seating, retro bar stools and industrial-style lighting.
Food will be available all day and centered around traditional English fare. There will be children’s meal deals and special offers for senior citizens.
At the bar will be cask ales, premium lagers, a gin bar and small selection of cocktails as well as a range of wines.
New landlord Paul Smith said: "I have always liked Lymington and am a keen sailor. When I heard The Fusion Inn was to have significant investment, creating a brand-new pub how I wanted it, I decided it was an opportunity not to be missed.”
He went on: “I want to create a friendly, modern pub cafe offering value-for-money dining that is rooted in the community. It will be somewhere you can bring your family, meet friends or come on your own and be sure of a warm welcome.
"The transformation of the Sail Inn will, I hope, lead to further investment and a smartening of the top end of town."
Neil Convery, regional operations director for Star Pubs & Bars, said: “Heineken is a passionate supporter of the great British pub and is investing £50m this year in pubs like the Sail Inn to help them deliver excellent quality, attract customers and thrive in their communities for years to come.
“Pubs need to evolve to remain relevant to consumer needs. The refurbishment will take the Sail Inn to a new level, improving the appearance, comfort and facilities and creating a sociable place where people of all ages can come together.
“We’re delighted that Paul has taken on the Sail Inn. He has got the experience and a real affinity with the town which together will result in a great local for the Lymington community. We wish him well.”
