A couple who are transforming a riverside pub in disrepair believe it is “the most satisfying project of our lives”. 

Nirmal and Hannah Vivekananthan took over The Swan on the River in Littleport, having first spotted the venue for sale around six to eight months ago. 

“We both said that there was a lot of potential in this place,” said Nirmal. 

“We want to make it attractive enough for people over Cambridgeshire and beyond.” 

After their offer for what is now known as The Swan was accepted, Nirmal and Hannah decided to visit the venue before getting the keys in November. 

The property is the first to be owned by Nirmal and Hannah’s company Colombo Edition Hotels Limited. 

And despite their previous experience in finance and hospitality, the couple are embarking on one of their hardest projects to date. 

“We had to replace the walls, and work on the electrics, gas pipes and panelling,” said the couple. 

“When we stayed at The Swan in the summer, it was shocking to say the least.” 

Over the last two months, Nirmal and Hannah have been turning the former pub into a fine-dining restaurant and hotel for a project costing around £145,000. 

Ely Standard: The Swan on the River in Littleport has been undergoing a transformation under new owners Nirmal and Hannah Vivekananthan.The Swan on the River in Littleport has been undergoing a transformation under new owners Nirmal and Hannah Vivekananthan. (Image: Facebook/The Swan on the River)

Phase one of the project, which includes creating ‘The Brasserie’ restaurant and the ‘Riverside Bar’ are now complete, while five guest rooms are due to be ready in 2023. 

Another eatery, named ‘Smoke ‘n’ Spice’ and ‘The Terrace’ beer garden, part of phase two, are also in the pipeline. 

A range of cuisines, from British to European, are expected with a hint of Morocco and Asia, too. 

“Our mission is to provide quality service and up the scale of food,” said Nirmal. 

“The budget has been stretched and the project has been nothing short of a challenge, but the most satisfying project of our lives.” 

Nirmal and Hannah welcomed figures including Littleport councillors and Cllr Richard Morgan, the Right Worshipful Mayor to the City of Ely, to a pre-launch event on December 14 before officially opening a day later. 

And the couple, who will employ around 10 staff, are keen to encourage former customers to return in an attempt to renew its reputation. 

They added: “The goal is to put The Swan back on the map.”