Thu 7th Jan 2016 - Downing invests £3m in new Burning Night bar and grill concept Downing invests £3m in new Burning Night bar and grill concept: Downing’s Pub EIS Fund has committed over £3m to facilitate the roll-out of a bar and grill concept known as the ‘Potting Shed Bar and Gardens’. The concept was developed by the Burning Night Group at what was formerly a traditional high street pub in the commuter town of Bingley, near Leeds. In addition to extending the internal trading space, the extensive development works saw the creation of a large garden and roof terrace, the latter of which has recently been covered with a retractable roof. The design has a unique but modern feel with almost everything having been reclaimed and/or upcycled. For example, the old floorboards have been used to line the walls, and the wood-fired pizza oven in the open-plan kitchen is made from stone found during clearing the garden. The site serves fresh home-made food with a focus on pizzas and burgers served alongside cocktails, artisan spirits and an on-trend selection of beers. Whilst the initial funding package will be used to acquire and develop further sites in Yorkshire, a number of which have already been secured, the intention is for further funds to be provided to allow the concept to be rolled out more widely. Shoosmiths and Squire Patton Boggs advised on the transaction. Steven Kenee, partner of Downing LLP and head of licenced leisure sector, said: “The Potting Shed is a fantastic concept developed by a great hard working team who have been a pleasure to work with. The Bingley site has traded exceptionally well since its launch in March 2015, generating sales many city centre sites would be envious of. The investment caps off what has been a productive year for Downing in the sector. In addition to investing £24m of follow capital alongside existing partners Antic London, Oakman Inns and Pub People, we completed almost £10m of investments with new partners Upham, Redcomb and the Burning Night Group. As well as providing all of our existing partners with further development capital, we look forward to forging many new partnerships in 2016.” Allan Harper, of Burning Night Group, said: “It has been a pleasure working with Downing. Unlike many funders who we found to be overfocused on control for them, they focus on building positive long term partnerships which allow us the freedom to create the concept and manage the business albeit with their support, backing and good unbiased advice.” Downing LLP is a London-based investment management firm.