Bridge Inn news

As many will have noticed, the Bridge Inn is closed at present. Questions are being asked as to when it will reopen, particularly given a number of comings and goings this year by management couples who have been looking after the business.

We understand on good authority that Marstons have agreed a Retail Partnership with a new licensee. There was an advertisement posted on the pub a few months ago offering such a partnership and we did have confirmation earlier from Marston's senior management that this was what they were seeking for the Bridge Inn.

This is how a retail partnership is described on Marston's website: "This is an agreement to allow entry into a pub that gives a retailer the facility to develop their own business with the full help and support of Marston's Pub Company, without the higher entry costs of a traditional tenancy or lease agreement.

"It gives all the support and guidance that you would expect from a managed house but allows you to use your own entrepreneurial skills to develop and grow your business.

"Before you take on a new retail pub we will refurbish the interior and exterior of the building to a high standard, where it is required. It will then remain our responsibility for all ongoing repairs to the building.

"We will also make sure the domestic living accommodation is of a comfortable standard so you can concentrate on running your business not decorating. In addition we also retain ownership of the fixtures and fittings, the stock for resale and all the running costs of the pub i.e. rates, electric, gas, water, utilities and marketing.

"We will work very closely with you to ensure your business is as successful as possible."

It appears the pub is receiving a lot of attention from tradesmen at present and that this includes the upstairs accommodation.

We don't know when the pub will re-open – rumours have varied from three to six weeks – but will bring news as soon as it's available.

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