A Co Down restaurant has become the first commercial energy user to connect to the Phoenix Natural Gas network.

The Parson's Nose restaurant in Hillsborough signed up as part of the firm's major extension programme into thirteen new towns across Co Down.

The project will see an additional 28,000 commercial and domestic properties connected to the natural gas network, with first connections in Hillsborough to go live by June.

Ronan Sweeney, Managing Director of Balloo Inns and owner of the Parson's Nose said: "When I heard that natural gas was soon going to be available in Hillsborough I was keen to ensure that The Parson's Nose could make the upgrade as soon as possible.

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"The Parson's Nose has recently undergone a major refurbishment incorporating a new interior design and an extended exterior dining space. We've enhanced the menu with some new wood-fired dishes while retaining our emphasis on good local produce to create a new and unique pub dining experience in Hillsborough.

"Installing natural gas in the premises is the next chapter in the restaurant’s makeover. We are looking forward to enjoying the many benefits natural gas can bring to a commercial restaurant, such as instant heat and, crucially, controllability of cooking temperature which is vital for ensuring the perfectly cooked dish. The improved efficiency of natural gas, and associated cost savings, made upgrading to natural gas the obvious next step for our restaurant.

"Not only are we looking forward to being able to avail of the many benefits natural gas can bring us commercially, but it's great to see the historic village of Hillsborough benefit from an improved utility infrastructure and avail of a modern fuel choice."

(CD/MH)