Horticulture secures permission to open a new sister venue with support from Sintons

A popular Newcastle bar and restaurant has secured permission to open a new sister venue next door to its current site.

Horticulture has become a go-to venue for many in the city’s leisure scene since its opening on Market Street in 2019.

Now, it has been granted permission to expand into the former Don Vito’s site next door, to create Pepo – a bar and restaurant offering high end cocktails and sharing platters.

Pepo – which will see over £250,000 of investment – will have its own menu and a distinct vibe, but although its design will follow that of Horticulture and will complement the current offering.

Approval was given for the expansion by Newcastle City Council’s licensing sub-committee, with the client supported in their application by law firm Sintons, overcoming opposition from a nearby operator to secure a variation to its license.

Head of licensing Sarah Smith – one of the leading lawyers in the North of England who acts for a host of major leisure operators – advised Horticulture on its application.

Barrister Charles Holland represented the client at the sub-committee hearing and highlighted the importance of new venues opening around Pilgrim Street, given the major regeneration plans for the area, including the new HMRC headquarters and Bank House development.

Sarah Smith said: “Horticulture has become a hugely popular venue in Newcastle’s leisure economy and has gained a reputation as a must-visit for many regulars and visitors to the city alike.

“The fact they are now expanding is excellent news for the city, expanding the selection of high-quality bar and restaurant premises even further through the creation of Pepo.

“The offering will complement the hugely successful Horticulture, whilst bringing a new food and drink menu, making the area even more attractive to visitors to the City”.

“We are very pleased this application was granted and wish our client every success with the creation of this enhanced venue, and the promotion of the new Horticulture and Pepo offering.”