The Commercial Hotel is undergoing major renovations to become an “upmarket, family-friendly” establishment with no late trading.

Instead it will offer a new Balinese-inspired outdoor bar complete with 3.5-metre square television and children’s playground among other changes to cater for patrons of all ages.

The vision of owners Greg Pilon and Brett Harvey, who took on the new challenge less than a year ago, say it is a far cry from the reputation of the hotel in past times.

In 2008 it hit the headlines as the most violent pub outside Sydney, with 38 assaults linked to it in the first nine months of 2007.

Although the Commercial was absent from more recent Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research lists Mr Pilon had not forgotten its history and he promised the community a new era.

“The number three most violent pub (in NSW) is in for a massive change,” he said.

The long-time publican who left the Pastoral last year said the government’s crackdown on pubs in the centre of Sydney augured change for the wider industry.

“I think people’s attitudes are changing, I don’t think I’d like to own a nightclub,” he said.

“The Old Bank (Restaurant) has proven people will pay for the right environment and quality.”

Work has already started on the historic premises in Brisbane Street and Mr Pilon was excitedly noting the progress towards an anticipated Easter completion.

“This isn’t going to be a cheap boozer, it will be upmarket, family-friendly and no late trading,” he said.

Mr Pilon also pledged to deliver on his promises as he inspected the site, still trading throughout the period.

“A lick of paint is not a renovation, what people will see here is a renovation,” he said.

The two business partners did their research at pubs across NSW before submitting their plans to Dubbo City Council for development approval, gained in January.

The old bar where generations have quenched their thirst was marked for demolition to make way for a new Caesar stone bar.

Internal walls will come down to give a more open look and an alfresco lane will make use of the pub’s northern side.

“I think there’s a missing piece in the Dubbo hotel market and I hope this will be it,” Mr Pilon said.

The Commercial Hotel is Dubbo’s oldest licensed establishment and was built in 1859, according to a Dubbo Heritage Walk guide produced by the council.