THE Sportsmans Arms pub, which was saved from becoming a discount supermarket in a lively campaign from Penketh residents, will be refurbished and six new houses built on land surrounding the building.

The historic site was set to become a Netto supermarket but protestors successfully had the award-winning pub registered as an asset of community value.

After the supermarket chain collapsed, the Warrington Road pub’s future was thrown into doubt once again.

NewRiver have now announced plans to refurbish the pub, introduce a new menu and build homes on unused land at the site.

Tenant Joe Dodd, who has run The Sportsmans Arms for nine years with his wife Adrienne, said: “We want to reassure people that the future of the pub is guaranteed, and this iconic building is to remain a community hub for the village.

“A new chef started last week, so we’re once again serving food, and we’re really keen for people to come and enjoy what we have to offer – great food and drink, live music, live sport on screen, and all in a friendly atmosphere.”

Plans for the houses have not yet been submitted but NewRiver hopes to build four three-bedroom and two four-bedroom homes behind the pub.

Jackie Moody-McNamara, NewRiver pub portfolio director, said: “We’re working closely with Joe and Adrienne to safeguard the future of The Sportsmans Arms.

“The proposed residential development will only involve surplus land, and will go a small way to providing much-needed housing in the area. Local people will not be losing their pub, and instead can look forward to a full calendar of future events, including around Christmas, New Year and, into 2017, Valentine’s Day.

“The Sportsmans Arms isn’t going anywhere.”