Update on Miller & Carter conversion at Middlewich Harvester

Earlier this month, The Guardian reported the old Salt Cellar pub in Holmes Chapel Road would become a Miller & Carter steakhouse in April next year.

This came after Mitchells and Butlers, the company which operates Miller & Carter, applied for planning permission to erect new signage around the building.

Now, a separate application has been submitted for the re-branding and refurbishment of the site, which has become unkempt since the Harvester closed.

In a design and access statement, prepared by Design Coalition Co. Ltd on behalf of the applicant, it states the hope the re-branding will benefit the local economy.

The proposed Miller & Carter rebranding of the Harvester Salt Cellar pub (Mitchells and Butlers) (Image: Mitchells and Butlers)

It added: "These works form part of a major refurbishment and conversion project that is being undertaken to transform the existing Harvester restaurant into a Miller & Carter steakhouse, both brands being nationally recognised restaurant groups operated by Mitchells and Butlers PLC.

"The Harvester has been closed for some time and it is hoped that the re-branding and refurbishment of the premises will promote new life into restaurant to the benefit of the staff, customers, and the local economy.

"It will also ensure the property will not deteriorate further from the lack of use."

The refurbishment works include:

• The erection of a new entrance porch
• The provision of a Jumbrella
• New fences, both decorative and utility
• Provision of a bull feature statue
• Installation of external cold room in the service yard
• Removal of the timber pergola in front of the building
• Demolition of existing porch and semi-circular bar window
• Removal of two fireplaces and the chimney stacks above
• Replacement of two windows with full height glazing
• Complete internal refurbishment to reflect the Miller & Carter brand characteristics and requirements including completely new bar servery, and refit of outdated toilets
• Replacement of old sodium floodlights with LED lights of equal luminance

The former Harvester Salt Cellar (Image: Newsquest)

A Mitchells and Butlers spokesman said: “From time to time we review our estate and take the decision to convert a business to another of our successful brands.

“We’re delighted to share that we will be converting Harvester Salt Cellar to a brand-new Miller & Carter in April 2023.

“Harvester fans will be able to find their next nearest restaurant in Stoke-on-Trent.”