A DURHAM City pub has been forced to close its doors with ‘immediate effect’ after the owners have reportedly run out of money to invest in the facility – only six months after taking on the investment opportunity.

The Gate, on Beech Road, Framwellgate Moor, only opened to members of the public at the start of 2022 after rebranding from its previous Happy Wanderer guise.

As reported by The Northern Echo in November 2021, The Gate was set to be “a top-quality family-friendly neighbourhood pub” – after the Happy Wanderer had been sat derelict for two years.

Read more: Meet the new owners of Happy Wanderer pub near Durham City

But, according to a message that was sent to employees yesterday (May 17), the pub has closed immediately – leaving near to 25 people without a job.

Despite investing £450,000 in the old community pub in 2021, which included a total revamp of the pub’s exterior and interior, neither the owners, Star Pubs & Bars, or licensees, David Hobson and Estelle McKee, could save the pub from closure.

Revealing the closure of the pub, yesterday, a message that was obtained by The Northern Echo and sent out to staff at The Gate read: “It is with a heavy heart and much disappointment that we are closing the pub with immediate effect.

The Northern Echo: The Gate pub in Framwellgate Moor, Durham. Picture: THE GATE.The Gate pub in Framwellgate Moor, Durham. Picture: THE GATE.

“We cannot thank everyone enough for all their hard work and support since opening.

“We have met some great people but unfortunately, we do not have any more money to invest, and Star Bars have shown no cooperation or support with regards to keeping the pub going.

The Northern Echo: The message that was sent to staff at The Gate.The message that was sent to staff at The Gate.

“We are sorry and wish all of you the very best for the future.”

The Gate and Star Pubs & Bars have been approached for further comment about the closure.

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