Six-figure refurbishment starts at Greene King pub The Half Moon in Mildenhall as part of brewery’s plan to create Hive Pub franchise

A six-figure refurbishment has started at a Greene King pub in a town as part of the brewery’s franchise plan.

The Half Moon in Kingsway, Mildenhall, is being renovated and is set to reopen as a Hive Pub franchise later this summer.

It is the latest Hive Pub in Suffolk, following The Victoria in Thurston, near Bury St Edmunds, and The Swan in Needham Market.

The business formerly traded under the 'Hungry Horse' brand.

Cllr Ian Shipp, cabinet member for leisure at West Suffolk Council, who also represents the Mildenhall Kingsway and Market ward of the town, said: “It’s fantastic that Greene King is investing in Mildenhall’s Half Moon pub.

“It shows a real commitment to our community. This kind of support helps keep the pub at the heart of local life, creating jobs, improving facilities, and ensuring we all have a welcoming place to gather.

“It brings fresh energy and long-term sustainability to Mildenhall.”

The Half Moon pub garden will be revamped as part of the plans with a covered, heated pergola at the heart of it and various seating options, as well as new planting, lighting and signage.

The trade area inside will be redecorated and rezoned to improve the flow of the pub to create a single central bar.

Multiple TV screens, a pool table and a darts board, are set to be included.

A Greene King spokesperson said: "The Half Moon has temporarily closed for a six-figure refurbishment and the pub is set to reopen as a Hive Pub franchise later this summer.

“We know that the Half Moon is a popular spot for locals in Mildenhall, and we look forward to welcoming guests back to enjoy the upgraded venue in the near future."

The spokesperson added they have an experienced community pub operator lined up to run the Half Moon.