Earlier this week, the Suffolk-based pub operator and brewer permanently closed the doors of the Billesley in Kings Heath, Birmingham.
The pub, which is thought to be around 100-years-old, had been operating a Hungry Horse site since 2013.
It had initially been due to close temporarily from 13 July for around three weeks while maintenance work was carried out, before the decision was made to close it permanently.
Unexpected closure
The unexpected closure has devasted local community groups that regularly met at the venue, including the Crafting Voices Choir and the Billesley Rock Club.
Greene King said it was working closely with staff to find them alternative roles at its other pubs where possible and was in the process of reviewing options for the historic venue.
A spokesperson for Greene King told The Morning Advertiser (The MA): “We are proud to run hundreds of thriving pubs in communities across the country.
“From time to time, we review the options available to us regarding the long-term future of our pubs.
“As a result of this process, we can confirm that we have ceased trading at the Billesley as we consider the future of the site. Making the decision to close a pub is never an easy one and multiple factors are always considered.
Estate shake-up
“We are aware this will be disappointing news to the local community, and we would like to thank those who have enjoyed visiting us over the years.”
Earlier this year, Greene King, which runs around 2600 pubs, restaurants and hotels across the UK, shared plans to convert or sell some 300 pubs within its leased and tenanted (L&T) estate.
Alongside this, Greene King also recently announced plans to sell 13 hotels as well as expand its Pub Partners arm.
The pubco said the estate shake-up would allow the business to reinvest in its core estate and position the business for future growth.
