The Waverley in Bridgend, Dumbarton closed at the weekend to undergo a £150,000 refurbishment backed by Heineken-owned Star Pubs, in partnership with local operators Carl and Margaret Donnelly (pictured).
The pub reopened in April this year following a six-month closure, and the upcoming investment will involve a full external upgrade, including repainting, new lighting and signage featuring imagery of the paddle steamer from which the pub takes its name. Window grilles will also be removed to allow more natural light into the space. The Waverley’s walled beer garden, which backs onto the River Leven, will also be improved with new planting and outdoor furniture.
Inside, the refurbishment will include an extended bar, upgraded cellar with new dispense equipment, and a complete redesign of the interior. The updated décor will introduce heritage colours, traditional wallpaper, nautical artwork and new lighting, aiming to balance the pub’s original character with a more modern finish.
Carl Donnelly said, “Our ambition from the outset has been to get it back to its glory days when it was a hub of the community. Residents clearly value having a good local. We’ve been overwhelmed by their support – regulars who haven’t been in for years are returning alongside new faces.”
The pub was once run by Scottish football star Drew Busby and Carl added, “We’re also planning to pay tribute to Drew Busby, who previously ran the pub, by giving pride of place to a framed photo and shirt.”
Iain Gibson, Business Development Manager at Star Pubs said, “Carl and Margaret have done a fantastic job of bringing The Waverley back to life and building up a following from scratch. We’re delighted to be helping them take it to the next level and giving it a quality look to match all they’re doing.”
The pub is due to reopen on 6 December with an event to mark the completion of works. The team plans to introduce a programme of regular entertainment, including live music, quiz nights and games.