A PUB could be transformed to include two bars and a roof terrace if potential new owners are given the green light to take over.

The Forge, in Billericay's Queens Park, is being let by manager Greene King as the brewery hunts for new landlords.

Kirsty Lambird, 58, and her partner Lilly, say they are in communication with Greene King to take over the pub and believe it is prime for redevelopment after years of “going under the radar”.

The couple, who are both transgender, believe the pub could become a huge hit if it is renovated to include an upstairs entertainment bar, dance floor, balcony and sports bar Kirsty said: “The Forge is a sleeping giant really, which I find ridiculous because the customers are so lovely.

“It could have life breathed into it.

“We did a business plan, and we gathered the information on the area and while it does market itself as a very conventional pub, which a lot of pubs do, it takes on a bit of a stadium atmosphere and it can be developed differently.

“It’s about that second bar, that is what would make it work.

“The downstairs can stay the same, but we could make an incredibly nice, more active upstairs space.

“It could be really nice and currently it is hurting.

“It feels like The Forge is being run down a little.”

The pub remains open at the moment and Greene King has insisted there are no plans for it to close or be sold, but a series of “to let” signs surround the business.

Kirsty added that she had gained a lot of experience running pubs and bars since the 90s and, while wary of the current way licensing works in the industry, believes it gives her and Lilly the ability to revive it.

“I do come at things a little different.

“I have a grounding in management and we both just like to make people laugh. That is why we saw The Forge as ideal,” she added.

“It could be nearer the high street, but Essex is struggling with any sort of venues, and we both have that proven track record.”