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Bridge Repairs Halt Business: Pub Faces Ruin
19 Jun
Summary
- Pub takings have dropped by nearly a third due to ongoing bridge repairs.
- Road closures have been in place for over six months, impacting business.
- The pub owner invested £1 million to restore the derelict establishment.
A pub owner in Brewood, Staffordshire, fears for his business's viability due to ongoing repairs to a local bridge. Billy Hutchinson, owner of The Lesters Arms, reports that his takings have decreased by nearly a third since road closures began over six months ago. The closures were implemented after a sinkhole appeared on Brewood Bridge, which spans the Shropshire Union Canal.
Hutchinson, who invested £1 million in renovating the derelict pub in 2024, stated that the road closures are costing his business approximately £5,000 per week. He expressed frustration over the lack of progress and consideration for local businesses affected by the lengthy disruption.
The Canal and River Trust, responsible for the bridge repairs, indicated that work was hoped to commence in the summer. A design for the repairs has been submitted to Staffordshire County Council for approval, with the trust aiming for a "right long term solution" while acknowledging the route's importance to the community and appreciating local patience.
