NEW owners of the Pig & Whistle, in Purves Rd, Main Ridge, have big plans for the former “traditional British pub” which has been running since 1975.
The 26-acre property had been on the market for several months at a reported asking price of more than $3 million. The sale has been confirmed, and it was expected to change hands yesterday (Monday 1 February).
The buying syndicate plans to upgrade the venue “to a resort-style destination for visitors from across Australia and overseas”.
Chief operations manager John Groenendijk would not reveal the purchase price but signalled major upgrades over the next 12 months:
“Customers will see many changes, including the makeover of the destination for locals and tourists to create a ‘tourist hub’ as part of the continued development of Arthurs Seat as a significant tourist destination,” he said.
“It will have bed-and-breakfast accommodation, areas for private and wedding functions, an area and stage for ‘On-the-Green’ concerts, souvenir shop in the cellar door, children’s playground and even a micro-brewery.”
Menu changes will focus on fast, casual dining and fresh food.
First published in the Mornington News – 2 February 2016
