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Timed called on British pubs?

Pubs are closing down at their fastest rate ever, with those in towns and cities being hit the hardest. Around 2% of city pubs have closed in the last six months, whilst food-led country pubs with outdoor facilities for smokers are reaping the benefits.

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) believe the increase in pub closures comes down to a number of factors, including the smoking ban, increased beer prices, uncertain economic conditions, and temperamental weather.

According to a survey carried out by the association, 1,409 pubs closed during 2007. Pub numbers were down 216 in 2006 and 102 in 2005.

Rob Hayward, Chief Executive of the BBPA, said: “These figures show the stark reality of the pub trade today, in contrast to the hype surrounding the myth of ‘24-hour drinking’ and extended pub opening hours. “Pub closures at this rate are threatening an important hub of our social fabric and community history. What we need to stop the decline is support from Government and the general public.”

BBPA spokesman Gareth Barrett said: “Obviously the rate is high at the moment but we are optimistic about the future. It does take time to get new customers in. We hope to see stabilisation and expansion within the next few years.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .