26-07-2025
BrewDog gives its verdict on future of unopened Durham bar after closing 10 UK pubs
Pub chain BrewDog has given its verdict on the future of its unopened Durham site, amid its decision to close ten of its other pubs across the UK.
The brewing giant said that it would be closing ten of its bars later this week as part of a fresh strategy for the brewing firm's hospitality arm.
BrewDog said it has made efforts to preserve the sites, including York, Leeds North Road, and its flagship Aberdeen pubs, but it 'has simply not been possible to make these bars commercially viable'.
The BrewDog site on Milburngate, Durham (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) When asked about BrewDog's unopened bar in Durham, which is part of the controversial Milburngate development, the brewery chain confirmed there would be "no impact" on its plans to come to County Durham.
BrewDog's hopes of opening in Milburngate began in 2022, when it was announced that a bar would be 'opening soon' alongside Everyman Cinema and Premier Inn.
However, years of delays, including main contractor Tolent going into administration, as well as problems with fire safety regulations and other delays, the site still hasn't opened, despite all of the businesses being 'ready to go'.
Despite the issues surrounding BrewDog, it seems that its Durham site is firmly in its plans, and it hopes to open the site as soon as possible.
A BrewDog spokesperson said: "The recent announcement regarding bar closures has no impact on our plans for Durham.
BrewDog has given its verdict on its Durham site, amid closures of other UK pubs (Image: STUART BOULTON) "It remains our intention to operate the site, and we continue to engage with local parties to that end."
As for Milburngate, talks remain ongoing for now, according to Durham County Council.
In a brief update on Friday (July 25), a Durham County Council spokesperson said: 'Our new leadership is discussing the development with the funder and any updates will be provided to relevant parties at the appropriate time.'
For other BrewDog sites, though, the future is more uncertain.
The bar chain said it will shut the bars on Saturday (July 26) and launch a consultation with staff lasting at least 14 days.
The BrewDog Milburngate site (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) Chief Executive, James Taylor, told staff the closures are part of a refresh of its estate, partly in response to 'rising costs, increased regulation, and economic pressures' on the sector.
He added that the brand will, however, still look to grow its bar business, with plans for more larger bars in 'destination' locations and to open smaller community bars.
A BrewDog spokesman said: 'We can confirm that following a review of our bar business, we have made the difficult decision to close 10 bars, which reflects a more focused strategy and a rationalisation of our bar footprint.
Read more:
BrewDog to shut 10 UK pubs this week
BrewDog welcomes update on Durham City Milburngate
BrewDog looking for 'timetable of completion' at Milburngate
'This decision is not simply a response to the challenging UK hospitality market, but a proactive decision to redefine the bar division's focus for long-term and profitable growth – accounting for ongoing industry challenges, including rising costs, increased regulation, and economic pressures.
'We are working hard to minimise the impact on our people, and we expect to redeploy many affected team members across the BrewDog network.
'For those leaving the business, we're providing as much support as possible during this transition.'
