Punch invests £1m on outdoor spaces ahead of al fresco reopening

The investment programme is aimed at helping Punch's publicans maximise the opportunity of trading safely outside whilst complying with Government guidance.

Solutions include the installation of new furniture, stretch tents, festoon lighting, 'cosy' huts and outdoor heating.

According to the group, 662 of Punch pubs in England (72%) will be able to welcome guests back on 12 April.

“Working together with hundreds of our publicans, we have breathed new life into many of our pub gardens and outdoor spaces," says Andy Spencer, managing director of Punch Pubs.

"Creating safe, warm, and welcome environments to give our guests fantastic experiences when we reopen and for the future.

"Like all of our publicans able to reopen, we are excited to welcome our customers back in April. However, it remains vitally important to remember that pubs will be operating at a significantly reduced capacity.

"We need restrictions to continue to be relaxed during the reopening period to ensure the long-term survival of the Great British Pub”.

Other pubs groups reported to be investing in their outdoor spaces in order to take advantage of the earlier reopening date include Young's, which is launching two new pubs with outdoor terraces on 12 April.

In total the group is planning to open 143 sites for outdoor drinking and dining next month.

Meanwhile, earlier this month it was revealed that pub giant Wetherspoons would be reopening close to 400 sites in its c.900-strong portfolio when the restrictions on outdoor hospitality settings lift.