Third of Oldham pubs on the brink of closure

MORE than a third of the borough’s pubs are facing closure within a year, according to new figures.

According to insolvency trade body R3, up to 35 per cent of local pubs are considered “at risk” and may be forced to close within a year. It says consumers are drinking at home to save money.

Restaurants are struggling too, with 38 per cent of local eateries also at risk.

Jeremy Oddie, North-West regional chairman of R3, said: “The downturn has gone on far longer than could have been predicted and it is getting harder for people to find the money to spend. The strain IS showing.” Bernie Jackson, pubs’ officer for Oldham Campaign for Real Ale, said since 2008, 31 Oldham pubs have closed.


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