Community leaders have welcomed news pub giant Greene King is set to invest in one of its Suffolk venues, stating it will be a "boost" to the industry which "struggles to survive".
The Bury St Edmunds brewer has confirmed the Half Moon in Mildenhall will undergo a refurbishment in 2025 and a new landlord is being sought.
Speaking of the plans for the pub, in Kingsway, a Greene King spokesperson said: “We have exciting plans to invest in the Half Moon and transform it into a Hive Pub in 2025.
"Hive Pubs is our growing pub franchise brand and we are actively looking for experienced pub operators or managers who want to run a pub business with the full support of Greene King.”
Following this announcement Andy Neal, who represents Mildenhall Queensway on West Suffolk Council, said: "Investment into a pub is very welcomed and more so because it is one in Mildenhall.
"The Half Moon’s location at that end of town spreads entertainment away from the town centre. It has a regular clientele as well as attracting the casual visitors.
"The upgrade from the investment will provide both a boost in visitor numbers and profits for an industry that struggles to survive."
And Ian Shipp, who represents Mildenhall Kingsway & Market, said: "This is great news for Mildenhall.
"All too many pubs are closing up and down the country and for Greene King to be investing in Mildenhall’s Half Moon pub shows their commitment to our local asset and safeguards local jobs.
"I’m looking forward to popping in for a bite to eat and a pint when it reopens."
According to Greene King, the beer garden has been earmarked for renovation, while the inside will be "completely redecorated".
Multiple TV screens, as well as a pool table and darts board, are also set to be included.
It will become the latest Hive Pub in Suffolk, following on from the Victoria in Thurston and the Swan in Needham Market.
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