The popular Nightjar pub in Ferndown, Dorset, will be closing its doors for good tonight, despite a petition by locals to keep it open. JD Wetherspoon, the owner of the pub, has chosen not to renew the lease, leading to disappointment among the community.
Community Efforts
Over 1,000 signatures were collected in a petition organized by local woman Linda Polley, who spoke highly of the pub and its friendly atmosphere. While the community did not want to lose this beloved local staple, the decision was ultimately made by Wetherspoon.
Commercial Decision
Eddie Gershon, spokesperson for Wetherspoon, confirmed that the closure was a "commercial decision" and that all staff were offered jobs at other Wetherspoon pubs in the region. He acknowledged the disappointment from customers and the petition to save the pub.
Pub Chain Under Pressure
The closure of Nightjar is part of a larger trend, as Wetherspoon faces challenges from price inflation and the austerity crisis. Many customers have opted to drink at home with supermarket beer, rather than paying for pints at Wetherspoon. The pub chain currently has 27 pubs up for sale, with some already closed.
Closures and Offers
Since the start of 2022, Wetherspoon has closed more than half a dozen pubs, including the Running Horse in Doncaster Airport and the Willow Grove in Southport. Currently, 17 pubs are still available for sale and 10 are under offer, meaning potential buyers have made offers that are being considered by the seller.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://hellofaread.com/money/the-end-of-an-era-74-wilko-stores-closing-this-week/
