Figures released by the Campaign for Real Ale show that more than a thousand pubs across the UK closed their doors in 2023.
Here in Greater Manchester alone, during the course of 2023, there were 24 permanent closures and 60 long-term closures. However, the data also found that there were 296 pub openings, where pubs have been built or buildings converted to be used as pubs, across the UK in the same period. A 'long-term closed' is where the pub is not currently trading but the building is technically a pub, while a 'permanent closure' is when a pub has been converted or demolished. Pubs in England cannot be converted or demolished without planning permission - a vital protection campaigned for by CAMRA – which gives communities a say on the future of their local boozers.
It comes after Wednesday’s Spring Budget, in which Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced his latest plans for taxation and spending. While alcohol duty was frozen, The Campaign for Real Ale’s Chairman Nik Antona said that the budget was a ‘missed opportunity’ to show 'backing for the Great British pub' by significantly cutting tax on draught beer and cider served in pubs.