Last orders at Newport pub as high rental costs force pair out
Another pub in Newport will be closing at the end of this month. The Bridge Inn in Newport, on Lower Bar, will close on December 20, after the owners made the announcement on Facebook.
The announcement follows hot on the heels of the revelation that the town's only hotel, The Royal Victoria, is to shut its doors on December 21.
In the statement, Liam and Richard Allman-Evitts said they were closing due to the increase in rental costs. The pair opened the public house at the start of the year, after it had been empty since May 2014.
On the post Liam Allman-Evitts said: "Due to increased rent costs we sadly announce we will be leaving the Bridge Inn, Newport, on December 20. We have loved our time here and made some great friends, but sadly it is not financially viable to continue.
"We are still open for business and welcome all. Final details are due to be announced and party week to be arranged. Please support us in our last few weeks."
The pub can be traced back to 1669 when it was held by the Cherrington family. The original name of the inn was The Cross Keys and was changed to the Bridge Inn in 1828.
Patrick Beech, chairman of Newport Chamber of Commerce, said: "Once again this is a blow to see The Bridge Inn closing soon after The Royal Victoria.
"I never like to see any business close but hopefully someone may take it up pretty soon."
The Royal Victoria, which is owned by Marstons has been bought by developers and will be converted for residential use.
