There wasn’t any ground to be broken, but Covington officials were still eager to celebrate. This time, to announce, a new commercial venture coming to the city, officials opted for a sledgehammer, rather than a shovel.

The occasion was a “demolition celebration” for the Irish Bred Pub and Restaurant Thursday.

Typically a ceremonial moving of dirt would take place before a new project’s construction took place. However, for the Irish Bred Pub, a renovation of the former Church Street Antiques on The Covington Square was needed.

Still wanting to celebrate its new venture, the city held its ceremony.

Mayor Ronnie Johnston and pub owners Jack and Lisa Phillips put on hardhats, and swung their sledge hammers at a wall in the historic building.

“I can’t overstate how great this is for Covington and Newton County,” Johnston said. “This addition helps fill a void in this area and on the Downtown Square in particular. I am confident it will be very well received by locals as well as visitors to our town.”

Slated to open in February of 2016, the Irish Bred Pub and Restaurant will seat 350 patrons and will employ approximately 60 people. The menu will consist of the franchise’s traditional dishes as well as some selections from the owners.

In addition to the restaurant, live music, a large dance floor, special performances, karaoke and team trivia will be included and a private room and meeting facilities will be available.

Johnston, who is a partner in another restaurant on the Square, the Mystic Grill, anticipates the Pub will enjoy success on the revitalized Square.

“The entire Square is enjoying somewhat of a renaissance,” Johnston said. “Quality additions like this are going to strengthen our community both economically and socially and the City of Covington is ready to welcome the Irish Bred Pub and Restaurant with open arms.”