Heineken’s Star Pubs division is making significant inroads in revitalising Yorkshire’s struggling pub sector, with two key sites reopened following major investment. The Westgate in Halifax and The Black Bull in Ecclesfield, Sheffield, are now operating successfully after receiving financial backing as part of a larger nationwide initiative.
Star Pubs, part of the Heineken group, has pledged £40 million to upgrade and reopen pubs across the UK in 2025, with £2.64 million of that funding allocated specifically to Yorkshire. Licensees in the region are contributing an additional £434,000, reflecting growing optimism in the sector. The investment is projected to generate approximately 76 new jobs in Yorkshire and nearly 1,000 nationwide.
The Westgate reopened in March 2025 after a six-year closure, following a £325,000 refurbishment. The Grade II listed building has been modernised while preserving its heritage features and now caters to both post-work customers and weekend visitors in central Halifax. Six new jobs have been created, and the pub’s popularity has surged, driven by live sports events and a planned schedule of entertainment.
In Sheffield, The Black Bull reopened in August 2024 after being closed for 18 months. It underwent a £198,000 transformation into a modern, family-friendly venue, complete with a garden, dedicated games room, and entertainment programme. Ten jobs were created as part of the relaunch. The interior redesign features distinct spaces catering to various customer needs, including a lounge, social bar area, and sports-focused games room.
The upgrades reflect a broader strategy by Heineken to target underperforming assets with growth potential, particularly in community-focused locations. The model relies on leasehold agreements and co-investment from experienced operators, signalling a scalable route for reinvigorating on-trade venues.
