Beer but no chips as technology firm does U-turn on Northend pub conversion

In December residents in Northend formed an action group in efforts to stop Warwick software manufacturer Bytronic’s plans to convert their only pub, the Red Lion, into an office.

But since then the firm, which had bought the premises, has changed its plans and is now preparing to reopen the establishment.

Vicky Fraser, spokeswoman for the company, said: “Bytronic directors decided to listen to the locals and reopen it as a freehouse. The last thing they wanted to do was upset the community.”

She said the inside of the building had been completely gutted and the bar was now much bigger, adding: “It’s going to be brand new and a comfortable country pub.

“Because it’s a freehold, it will be able to offer a larger choice of real ales and non-commercial spirits and wines that are not sold in the supermarket.”

Bytronic has appointed Joseph King as manager and is currently recruiting for a chef, with the hope of being able to offer evening meals.

Andy Wolstenholme, chairman of Burton Dassett parish council, which covers Northend, had been among those campaigning to save the Red Lion.

He said: “Hearing that Bytronic was going to reopen it took us by surprise. We were slightly agog. But lo and behold, it is going to happen. Seeing the Merrie Lion in Fenny Compton reopening last month did fill us with hope. It’s now a case of ‘watch this space’.”

The pub will reopen next Saturday (August 18) and a special welcome drinks evening for the Northend community will take place on Wednesday.