Revamped bar is up for sale
AN Accrington bar that closed before the Covid-19 pandemic for a refurbishment will not reopen some 17 months later.
Come July 19, all entertainment and late night venues can reopen with their usual capacity after Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed an end to England’s third national lockdown.
This means that nightclubs and similar late night venues can open their doors for the first time since March 2020.
In Accrington, IBar closed prior to the first national lockdown with the bar undergoing a significant revamp, with work continuing in February - just one month prior to the first lockdown announcement.
And now, owners of the Grade II listed bar, pub company Hawthorn, have revealed IBar is on the market with no plans to reopen it on or after July 19 under the ownership of the Birmingham parent firm.
The bar has now been placed on the market for £125,000 on long leasehold, with the building owned by another individual or company.
But Hawthorn says it remains committed to the neighbouring Warners Arms pub with extra investment planned.
Both venues are located on Warner Street in Accrington town centre.
A spokesperson for Hawthorn, the Community Pub Company, told LancsLive: “We’re looking for a buyer for IBar, which is in a fantastic location in Accrington.
“We will continue to serve the local community at Warners Arms, next door, and we plan to invest further in this excellent community pub in the future.”
Property specialists Fleurets have been given the task of selling the leasehold.
Fleurets says: “The IBar is currently closed due to Covid restrictions but an experienced operator may feel that this property represents an opportunity to re-open and develop the trade as a freehold freehouse late night venue and bar.
“Alternatively, a potential purchaser may believe that the property is best suited to an alternative use, subject to planning permission. No trading information is available.”
The property is held on two leasehold titles, one 999 year lease from May 28, 1788 and with a zero rent.
The second is a 999 year lease from the September 12, 1866 and with a peppercorn rent.
Currently, IBar has a premises licence to sell alcohol from 11am to 2.30am, Monday to Thursday; 11am to 3am, Friday and Saturday; and midday to 3am on Sundays.
It also has a licence to play live and recorded music from midday to 3am, Monday to Thursday; 11am to 3.30am on Friday and Saturday; and midday to 3.30am on Sundays.