Vaulkhard Leisure takes on lease for the Diamond pub in Newcastle

The Newcastle-based operator has coinvested £350,000 with Star Pubs & Bars to modernise the pub, which has 12 en-suite, wi-fi fitted rooms and a function room.

Vaulkhard Leisure director Ollie Vaulkhard said: “Whilst Covid has been a challenge for all it has also presented lots of opportunities, which we’ll continue to take. 

Customers and staff happy again

“We have moved away from late-night venues to those with broader appeal and will continue to invest and grow in the region. 

“Unlike other parts of the country, we saw strong performance in Newcastle city centre from April 2021 especially mid-week.

“Because we don’t have the same proportion of commuters and the city didn’t lose its workforce, so it was still a nice place to socialise, even though some people did work from home, they continued to come into the city for leisure.  I have enjoyed watching our sites build trade and see customer and staff happy once again.”

The Diamond is Vaulkhard Leisure’s third lease with Star Pubs & Bars, their others being Swarley’s in the Groat Market in Newcastle and Staith House on the Fish Quay in North Shields and its refurbishment will create a comfortable, usable alfresco socialising space, which can be used throughout the year.

Outside seating areas will feature a six-by-six metre covered timber pergola decorated with foliage and vintage lighting, a heated decked area with two trees within the canopy, a gas firepit, metal privacy screens and rustic wooden tables and benches covered in sheep fleeces.

Great reputation 

Inside, the décor and furniture will be upgraded to offer better-quality leather and fabric and the walls will be a mix of painted and rustic timber panelling while the bar will be clad in a metal decorative tile, surrounded by ceramic tiles. 

Star Pubs & Bars Investment Manager Jeremy Scott said: “We’re delighted Vaulkhard Leisure has taken on the lease of The Diamond.  They have years of experience and a great reputation for running quality pubs, bars, and cafes in the North East.

“The upgrade will improve the comfort for customers and bring the pub up to date. By the time The Diamond reopens hopefully the airport will be operating to capacity, making it an ideal location for a stopover as well as great place to socialise for the many local customers who use it on a regular basis.”