Covid restrictions see time called on The Corner bar
A HUDDERSFIELD bar has been forced to close for good because it is impossible to implement social distancing guidelines.
The Corner, a Mallinson’s Taphouse, in Market Walk, was already struggling before the coronavirus lockdown.
On so-called “Super Saturday”, it made the sad announcement it will close permanently as pubs across England began to reopen their doors.
Staff cited the lack of outdoor space and the impossibility of imposing restrictions on the bar’s upper two floors as reasons why it would not be able to reopen.
In an emotional statement published on its Facebook page, the owners said: “We are heartbroken to announce that the Corner will not be opening again as a Mallinson’s Tap House.
“The last couple of years have seen a decline in town centre footfall which has made operating the business very difficult.
”All our staff, supporters and the brewery have worked hard at making The Corner such a warm and welcoming place that we have all been very proud of.
“Despite all our efforts the past 12 months have been difficult and Covid-19 has made things worse.
“We have spent a lot of time trying to come up with ideas to make things work for all, and with present restrictions and the change in the hospitality industry we cannot make a town centre bar, with no outside space, on the upper two floors work viably.
“The social distancing guidelines are impossible to implement for us in this building, and we would want to keep customers and staff safe. Therefore, sadly, we have come to the decision that we are not able to reopen.
“We are currently in the process of making sure that all the businesses we have worked with over the years have been fully paid.
“We would like this opportunity to thank all the staff who have been part our of our Corner family, for all their hard work and dedication.
“We also want to thank our customers so much, especially those regulars who were always there, for their continued support.
“We are so disappointed not to have had the opportunity to have a proper goodbye”.