Cheers to pub’s brighter future

CHEERS: JW Lees area manager Dave Moran (left) with Haggate landlord Alan Gibson

Haggate closure confusion resolved
A LANDLORD and a brewery are finally pulling together after trouble over a pub planning application.

In July we reported how JW Lees had sought permission to demolish the Haggate pub in Royton - without consulting licensee Alan Gibson.

The Middleton Junction-based brewery quickly withdrew the application after Mr Gibson complained, explaining that it had only been undertaking “theoretical options” for the pub - including building three houses on the site.

The two parties have now called time on their differences and are working together to improve the popular pub.

Mr Gibson — who had already spent over £20,000 of his own savings on a new carvery, furniture, carpets and advertising — said the brewery is to pay for a new roof and windows.

He added: “JW Lees have committed themselves to repair and maintenance. I am pleased the misunderstanding of the Haggate’s closure has been resolved.”

The pub has invited Chronicle readers to help drink a toast to the Haggate’s future by offering a free pint of bitter to the first 200 customers who take an original print copy of this story into the pub.