Pub chain Wethers the storm

Published 13 Jan 2012 09:30 0 Comments

BRITAIN'S biggest pub chain will create up to 45 jobs later this year when it opens in Peebles.

J D Wetherspoon moved a step closer to opening a new pub in the town this week.

The award winning pub chain, which already has bars in Galashiels and Hawick, was granted planning permission to refurbish the Cross Keys Hotel.

And a spokesman for the cut-price pubs told the Peeblesshire News that the opening would create many full and part-time jobs in the town.

Spokesperson Eddie Gershon said: "We are still in negotiations on the site but the opening of Wetherspoon's would create 40 to 45 jobs.

"We're very pleased that planning permission has been granted but there are still a number of details that have to be organised and negotiations to be made, such as setting a date for building works to start as well as an opening date.

"We are still very keen to get Wetherspoon's opened up in Peebles."

Mr Gershon was unable to give an exact timescale when the boozer would open its doors - but it is thought work will begin before the summer.

The Cross Keys has been closed since last year.

And a deal to change hands on the historic property is expected within the next few weeks.

Chairman of Peebles Community Council David Pye welcomed the employment boost. He told us: "I think it's very good news for the town - it's bringing an empty property back into use and creating jobs that are currently not there.

"It's a strong brand name but on balance it will bring a useful additional facility to the town and its visitors because of the brand name."

Scottish Borders Council's planning committee was told at their meeting on Monday that the B-listed building in the town's Northgate is currently sitting empty.

The plans which went before them for the building included the demolition of a single storey toilet block and erection of screen fencing.

Welcoming the announcement of the planning permission, Councillor Neil Calvert, said: "I'm quite happy with the proposal.

"It is a very important building in the town and this company has a reputation of respecting the character of old buildings."

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This article appeared in Peeblesshire News 13 Jan 12

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