KENT brewer Shepherd Neame has invested more than £3 million preparing for the smoking ban in public indoor spaces which comes into force on July 1.

Ninety per cent of Shepherd Neame’s 380 pubs have an outside space, a garden, patio or courtyard with a structure such as a giant umbrella, canopy or pergola and heaters.

Chief executive of the Faversham-based firm, Jonathan Neame, said: “Over the past 12 months we have embarked on a significant investment programme in outdoor spaces to offer our customers pleasant, comfortable external facilities.

"Our covered heated areas, called 'smoke-easys’, are intended for smokers and non-smokers alike.

“Shepherd Neame’s pubs pride themselves on their individuality, character and heritage. We are not simply erecting 'quick fix’ solutions or temporary structures.

"Our objective is to turn our gardens into attractive outside spaces, sympathetic to their surroundings. By considering all our customers’ needs and effectively taking the pub environment outside, we’re fully prepared for the ban.”

He said the company hoped to attract new customers and employees once the ban comes into force, adding.

“July 1 heralds a new era for pub customers and employees, where people will notice a fresh, clean atmosphere.

"Pubs are the number one place for people to socialise and relax in the UK, enjoying excellent beer, locally-sourced food, a convivial environment and community events.”

The ban will include pubs, hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, private members’ clubs, sports clubs, cinemas, offices, factories and public transport.

Smoking will only be allowed in homes and outdoor public spaces, such as pub gardens. Smoking bans were introduced in Scotland in 2006 and in Wales and Northern Ireland earlier this year.