Pubs struggle to survive in wake of the lockdown
PUB closures could become more common as many struggle to ease out of lockdown.
One pub in Widnes had to resort to throwing away thousands of pounds worth of alcohol before it reopened because it passed its sell-by-date.
Now councillors have warned that more public houses could shut their doors for good despite the easing of lockdown rules amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The majority of pubs have now reopened but some have seen huge losses over the past two weekends.
In Runcorn and Widnes almost all of the pubs made losses over the last two weekends, a Halton Borough Council committee heard.
Part of the borough has already seen two pubs close their doors indefinitely due to lockdown, including the Imperial in Widnes.
Committee chair Dave Thompson said he feared more could follow.
Community safety manager Michael Andrews told the councillors: “I think a lot of the pubs are struggling in terms of the footfall and whether it’s worth them opening.”
He added: “Most of them made a loss just because of the practices that were out there.
“Although the numbers have increased this weekend, again the majority of them made a loss.”
Cllr Thompson said: “I’m quite concerned that by the end of this crisis we are going to see businesses, and particularly some pubs who have been hit hard, we are going to see places closing.”
Mr Andrews agreed, adding: “I think while the social distancing is in place we may lose a few more pubs.”
Both Cllr Thompson and Mr Andrews went on to say that a second spike would be particularly devastating as it would mean pubs throwing away even more beer that had exceeded its shelf life.
In one case, Mr Andrews said a pub in Widnes had to pour away £6,500 worth of beer before reopening because it had passed its sell-by date, and could have to do the same if the lockdown returned.
After the meeting, Cllr Thompson said: “Over many years we have seen many pubs close and it is a real concern the crisis caused by Covid-19 will exacerbate this and cause many more local community pubs to close their doors permanently, seeing the loss of local jobs.
“Given the rent some breweries charge and not being able to sell food, some pubs rely on local trade from drinkers.
“The Government is to plough billions into some industries and needs to recognise that the local community pub is also at risk and requires support.
“Across Halton hundreds of people are employed in licensed premises and every effort needs to be given to supporting them too.”