Leisure operator Living Ventures opens Alderley Edge Alchemist venue

Growing leisure brand The Alchemist has expanded with a new venue in Alderley Edge.

Opened in the former Grill on the Edge premises, the latest Alchemist Bar & Restaurant from leisure operator Living Ventures has created 40 jobs and is the company’s first site in suburbia.

The venue has a capacity of 150, with a two-storey glass façade on the high street outside, a ground-floor island bar and a restaurant housed within conservatory space.

The firm’s five-strong management team in Alderley Edge is led by manager Dave Rotherham, who previously worked for the Alchemist’s Manchester bars in Spinningfields and New York Street.

Alchemist MD Simon Potts said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing The Alchemist to Alderley Edge.

“Some residents are already familiar with the brand from our Manchester sites and we’ve had a huge amount of enquiries and enthusiasm for the development.”

He added: “We believe it will be a welcome addition to the bustling social scene in the village and are excited to immerse ourselves in the local community.”

The first Alchemist launched in Spinningfields in late 2010. Since then, the brand has grown to encompass sites in Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and London.

The firm, which was backed by Palatine Private Equity in a £13m management buyout last year, is scheduled to open its eighth venue at MediaCityUK in 2017.