Wetherspoons Puts Popular Nottinghamshire Pub at Risk of Closure Despite High Demand
A popular Wetherspoons pub in the Midlands has been placed on the market, putting it at risk of closure, even though it consistently attracts large crowds of customers. The Ernehale, located in Arnold, Nottinghamshire, is now available for sale, with the company inviting offers in excess of £400,000.
Commercial Decision Sparks Disappointment
Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon confirmed the sale, stating, "We understand that staff and customers will be disappointed with the news. Wetherspoon does, on occasion, put some of its pubs up for sale and this is the case here. It is a commercial decision taken by the company. The pub will continue to operate as a Wetherspoon until it is sold."
This announcement has left regular patrons baffled, as the pub is known for its bustling atmosphere. One customer expressed their confusion, saying, "It's very busy. It's packed, it's like that every day. It's like the heart of Arnold. I don't know where else we'd go."
Community Outcry and Political Intervention
The potential closure has prompted local MP Michael Payne of the Gedling Labour Party to take action. He has written to Wetherspoon founder Tim Martin and CEO John Hutson, urging them to reconsider the sale and offering to meet in person to discuss the matter.
Mr Payne highlighted the broader impact, stating, "It would result in job losses for local families, leave yet another vacant building in the heart of Arnold and our local community would lose an affordable venue where many elderly residents come together to meet friends."
He has also launched an online petition to rally support, emphasizing that "Arnold’s Wetherspoons is a busy, bustling pub that is never short of customers. It provides affordable food and drink, a safe and welcoming place to meet friends, and an important social hub for so many local residents. Losing it would be a blow to our community and to Arnold's high street."
Customer Sentiments and Economic Concerns
Patrons have voiced their sadness and confusion over the decision. A second customer noted, "The staff are friendly. You get to know people, your friends come in here. Every time we come in, it's really busy. It doesn't make any sense."
A third regular added, "I come here twice a week. It's quite busy — always — because a lot of beers are cheaper than other pubs. I'd be sad as Wetherspoons are cheaper than most others. The only thing that Wetherspoon doesn't have for me is Sky Sports football so if there is a match, I'll go to another pub. We'll have to see what happens. It might change for the better who knows?"
The sale raises questions about the future of this community staple, with many hoping for a positive outcome that preserves its role as a local gathering spot.
