Some good news amongst the continuing loss of local pubs – the Cambria in Loughborough Junction is to reopen after a £600,000-plus refurb.
Closed since December 2019, the pub on Kemerton Road is due to resume service in late March next year with new owners and managers.
They are the Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and Prospect Pubs & Bars.
Building work has just started. The new owners say it will result in “an eclectic design that reflects this colourful, up-and-coming neighbourhood”.
They say the Cambria is undergoing a full top-to-toe revamp and that, alongside necessary updates to expand the kitchen, there will be structural changes to enhance the pub’s layout, creating new areas to drink, dine and entertain.
Downstairs, there will be 40-cover garden room with retractable roof and sides. Festoon lighting and planting are designed to create a laid-back, all-day drinking and dining area.
The large bar area and lounge will be refreshed to become the heart of the pub.
An upstairs dining room that will also available for private hire will be introduced.
Outside, a large festoon-lit front terrace will offer additional seating for up to 70 guests. It will feature cushion-covered sofas, blankets, low tables and wooden chairs.
Decorated in a mix of “rich heritage colours”, the pub’s wooden panelling will be refurbished and a mix of furniture styles including velvet-covered booth-style seating as well as leather armchairs and banquettes, will be introduced.
All-day, every-day food will be classic pub offerings alongside small plates, a grill section and “old-fashioned puds”.
An extensive menu of Fairtrade coffees and teas is promised.
Drink offerings will centre on Brixton Brewery beers on tap, with other premium beers and ciders, wines, spirits and cocktails. A “vibrant selection” of no and low alcohol options. will also be on offer.
Prospect Pubs & Bars director Mark Draper said: “We’re excited to bring The Cambria back to life and back into the heart of this vibrant community.
“These last couple of years have demonstrated the strength and value of a good local community pub, one that customers can call their own and where they can feel at home.
“Myself and my business partner, Dan Shotton, have both been in the pub trade for many years.
“During our time together we’ve stuck to and followed the same simple philosophy when opening new sites.
“We aim to create authentic, timeless, quality pubs that are as well known for their friendly welcome and independent spirit as they are for their great food and drink at fair prices.”
Dugald Macer, Star Pubs & Bars regional operations director said: “We’re delighted that operators of Mark and Dan’s calibre are taking on The Cambria and taking it to a whole new level.
“They are very experienced pub operators and have a clear vision and a great track record of creating fantastic popular neighbourhood pubs, places where all ages can come together.
“This investment together with Mark and Dan at the helm will ensure it stands out from other pubs and becomes a favourite local.”
Sweet my new local!
Good news! Was born and raised in Cambria Road remember it well on the 70s piano banging out times on a Saturday night in the saloon bar. Time is change things move on but glad to see it’s not being lost two flats or residential.