Revamp planned for Holywood nightspot

Hospitality in the centre of Holywood is back in the news this month with the announcement from Martin Wolsey that he has taken over the town’s popular Wine & Co. night spot, following its acquisition from Wine Inns by a group of private investors.

Martin – the brother of Beannchor MD, Bill Wolsey – intends to refurbish the venue and it’s to be renamed Johnny the Jig after a famous sculpture in the town by local artist, Rosomund Praeger.

The deal deal puts Martin’s branch of the family – including sons Darren and Christopher – in charge at four pubs, including Alleycats in Belfast and the Rabbit Rooms and Wolsey’s in Bangor.

Also, at the end of April, the Wolseys further strengthened their connections with the town when Bill’s son, Conall, opened a branch of the family’s Little Wing pizza chain.

This is the fifth branch of the successful brand to open its doors. It’s located centrally on High Street in premises formerly occupied by the First Trust bank and now converted at a cost of around £300,000.

An official opening was held at the venue at the end of April when invited guests joined Bill and Petra Wolsey and special guest, Finance Minister, Stephen Hamilton to enjoy champagne and pizza.

Speaking briefly during the event, Mr Hamilton wished the family well with the venture and praised Bill Wolsey for his efforts with hospitality chain, the Beannchor Group, pointing out that venues such as these were essential from a tourism perspective.

The Holywood openings are part of another burst of activity across Greater Belfast generally which augurs well for the sector’s recovery. Brunswick Street venue, Irene and Nan’s – owned by Drinks Inc – is being transformed into Asian-themed nightclub, Shiro, it should be ready to open shortly.

And The Apartment, owned by Henry and Seamus Downey – formerly part of the Botanic Inns Group – should also be renovated later this year.