Stonegate committed to LGBT venues as it rebases business

As reported by The Morning Advertiser's​ sister title MCA​​, the venues were closed in March and have yet to reopen, with fears they may face permanent closure.

Stonegate said the “myriad of restrictions” meant it was not possible to reopen the sites, and so will remain closed until restrictions are eases.

The pub company added it was rebasing its business, while restrictions remain.

Amy Lamé, the Mayor of London’s night czar, said she had been reassured by Stonegate that they remain committed to the venues and will not permanently close.

She added: “It is clear that the impact of the 10pm curfew and the Government’s insufficient support package is putting our night-time venues and jobs at serious risk – particularly much-loved LGBTQ+ venues who heavily rely on trade after 10pm.

“The curfew needs to be immediately scrapped and the Government must urgently provide more financial support for businesses if we are to avoid losing these precious venues.”

A spokesperson for Stonegate said: “Like many business across the capital, the introduction of the 10pm curfew and subsequent further local tired restrictions have had a significant impact on thousands of business, as well as further reducing footfall in town and city centres and undermining consumer confidence.

”The combination of these factors and subsequent impact on sales and volumes, means that we are having to rebase our business accordingly, while restrictions remain.”