The Shed Bar in Leeds city centre has closed after 16 years of trading following a “downturn in footfall”.
In a post shared to its social media pages on Saturday 4 January, the firm explained its lease had expired and due to conditions that were “not appealing” the owners decided not to renew it.
The statement said: “After 16 wonderful years, we are sadly announcing the immediate closure of The Shed Bar.
Tough decision
“We want to thank everyone that has supported us through these years; from the fabulous managers and bar staff to our friends, families and everyone that stepped foot into the bar as our much loved customers. We appreciate all of you so very deeply.
“Our lease has expired and, due to conditions that were not appealing and the downturn of foot fall in the area, we have made the tough decision not to renew.
“Although the closure is tinged with some sadness, we want to view these 16 years as a celebration of something special, a place that holds so many beautiful memories for us.”
The Shed Bar was opened by friends Matthew Jones and Richard Hawley in 2008.
It’s website described the bar as a “feel-good venue, providing beautiful wood surroundings under a captivating railway arch, with an electric atmosphere provided by the fabulous array of modern rock and indie songs blended with classic rock ‘n’ roll.”
Under pressure
Last week, figures from commercial real estate adviser Altus Group showed pub closures increased by 6.7% in 2024 compared with 2023, with more than 34 a month having vanished from communities for good throughout the year.
It means the overall number of pubs in England and Wales, including those also vacant and being offered to let, fell to 38,989 in December, down 412 compared with 39,401 at the same point in 2023.
Trade bodies have repeatedly warned of more closures across the sector without targeted support from the Government as businesses continue to struggle against a challenging economic backdrop.
Moreover, British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) CEO Emma McClarkin recently told The Morning Advertiser (The MA) Labour have places hospitality firms under more pressure despite being “all about growth.”
