White Bear Pub Conversion
Location: Kexborough, Barnsley
Purchase Price £200,000
Refurbishment £140,000
Gross Development Value £790,000
Profit £450,000
The Challenge
The White Bear had been a cornerstone of the Kexborough community for many years, but like many traditional pubs, it faced increasing financial pressures. Despite the efforts of multiple landlords, the pub struggled to remain viable due to rising operational costs and changing social habits. With the building falling into disrepair and the risk of long-term dereliction looming, the challenge was to find a way to repurpose the site while respecting its history and the local community.
The Solution
Recognizing the importance of preserving the character of the site, we designed a scheme that brought new life to the space while maintaining its connection to the village.
Repurposing with sensitivity: Rather than allowing the building to decline further, we transformed the former pub into a much-needed five-bedroom family home, meeting local demand for larger properties.
Celebrating heritage: A hidden gem on the site—an old stone barn once used for storage—was carefully converted into two charming cottages, retaining original features like exposed oak beams to reflect the area’s heritage.
Enhancing the local landscape: The redevelopment improved the aesthetics of the site, ensuring the new homes blended seamlessly with the village surroundings.
This approach allowed us to give the White Bear a meaningful new purpose while contributing to the local housing market.
The Results
The once-struggling site is now home to three beautifully designed properties, providing high-quality housing for families in Kexborough.
Financial Breakdown:
Purchase Price: £200,000
Refurbishment Costs: £140,000
GDV: £790,000
* Plot 1 (Cottage): £200,000
* Plot 2 (Cottage): £250,000
* Plot 3 (5-Bedroom House): £340,000
Profit: £450,000
- The White Bear Pub – Before
The White Bear Pub – Being Converted
White Bear – After
White Bear – Kitchen
White Bear – Bathroom
White Bear – Basement
Old Stone Barn – Before Conversion
Old Stone Barn – Before Conversion
Cawthorn View Cottage – After Conversion- Cromwell Cottage – After Conversion
Cromwell Cottage – Living Room
Cromwell Cottage – Kitchen
Key Takeaway
The White Bear conversion demonstrates how sensitive redevelopment can breathe new life into underutilised buildings while respecting their legacy. By balancing heritage with modern needs, we created high-quality homes that contribute to the village’s future.
For investors and developers looking to unlock the potential of similar sites, Fibre Construction specialises in thoughtful, community-focused transformations. Get in touch to discuss your next project.
