Spiralling costs and a fall in the number of people using pubs has prompted the decision to shut the doors of The Ravensgate Arms in Ramsgate at the end of this month.
The King Street pub had reopened in September 2017 after being closed for just over three months.
A swell of support for the venue persuaded Ramsgate Brewery boss Eddie Gadd, the pub’s original manager, Roger Bell and Isle magazine editor Kiki Case to come together to bring the pub back to life.
Since that date it has been used by a diverse range of customers and been a base for restaurants such as Stark and, currently, Dirtee Feast. The team also ran a summer pop-up at the Boating Pool on Royal Esplanade.
But the after-effects of covid and the soaring costs of utility bills and goods has meant the business is not in a position to continue.
Eddie said: “It is really sad, it is a lovely pub and whenever I’m in there it has a busy atmosphere but I know the end of line figures. All pubs are having a hard time, no-one is doing particularly well and (Ravensgate) is a small pub.
“It would be perfect for an owner manager but as a managed business, it just means pouring cash into it.
“It is just the times, the electricity bill has risen and there is another big increase coming, bills are three times what they were.”
Kiki added: “It is a combination of rising costs and not enough people coming through the doors since covid.”
Most staff were already connected with Ramsgate Brewery so have been absorbed into that business but some casual staff will be looking for new jobs.
Dirtee Feast owner Dean Adams says his business will continue and talks are underway for a new location.
He added: “I will be continuing. It isn’t what I wanted but I am not concerned. I will be (at the pub) for next week and then hopefully will finalise for a new place.”
A farewell drinks event will take place at the pub on Friday (April 28) with a drink the pub dry session the following day. The doors will then close.
It is hoped someone will take on the building lease for a pub or other venture.
