THE new licensees of a busy Haddington pub are drawing up ambitious plans for the business.

Gary McFarlane and Michael Pisanek officially took over the Railway Hotel on Court Street last Monday.

The duo are already in negotiations with Greene King, who own the pub, regarding the future of the premises, which were run for almost three decades by Hamish Colgan.

Gary, who has lived in Haddington all his life, told the Courier: “Greene King are looking to invest a substantial amount of money and I would say an extensive refurbishment is on the horizon, which is very exciting.

“We have got involved in the planning process and design detail. That is not finished at the moment and plans have not been submitted but the brewery are hopeful it will be this year. That depends on the planning permission, but watch this space.

“What we can say is a new kitchen will be going in and food will be introduced, and the use of the function room is going to be pushed as well.”

Both Gary and Michael, who is originally from New Mexico but is now based in Leith, are keen to see the pub become even more of a community focal point, with potentially up to 10 jobs being created in the months ahead.

Discussions have taken place with Lamp House Music about the function room being used by budding musicians, while the duo are keen to see more local groups make use of the space.

Gary, a former police officer based in Haddington who was also involved with the town’s football club, said: “The Railway was always a popular pub for all ages and we are hoping it stays that way.

“I would say that since I started drinking I have been frequenting The Railway.”

Moving into the bar industry is not a step into the unknown for the duo.

Gary, 49, and Michael, 56, have been running Elle Events and Promotions, with a darts exhibition, featuring world champions, taking place in Haddington’s Corn Exchange next month, for a number of years.

Gary added: “I recently retired from the police force and also have an outside events and bar company. When we found out Hamish was coming out of the Railway and the sign went up, we had a wee discussion and thought rather than doing the mobile stuff we’d have a go at the real stuff.”

However, the connection with the Colgans continues, with Hamish’s grandchildren, Sarah and Steven, and daughter, Gillian, still working at the pub.

Gary and Michael thanked the staff, especially Lorraine Dickson, who has also left after more than 25 years, for helping ensure the handover had proven smooth and added: “They have been very, very helpful.”

A Greene King spokeswoman said: “We are deligh-ted to confirm new licensee Gary McFarlane will be taking over the Railway Hotel in Haddington from July 11.

“The previous licensee Hamish Colgan has done a wonderful job in establishing the pub in the heart of the community and we are confident this good work can now be built on locally. We wish Hamish a long and happy retirement.”