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After rumours spread, The Royal Oak pub in High Street, Harlesden, confirmed in a heartfelt statement yesterday (November 2) that it would be closing its doors on Sunday (November 5).
Nick Pring, the director of Urban Pubs & Bars, said the decision was due to the business “incurring significant losses” over the past few years and inflation making the business “untenable”.
Many locals expressed their sadness over the news, but local Brent Councillors pledged to try to save the pub.
Cllr Matt Kelcher said on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, that he was working with Brent Council’s deputy leader Cllr Mili Patel and Cllr Jumbo Chan to hold an “urgent meeting” with the council “to see how we can help”.
Hugely concerned to learn about the potential closure of the Royal Oak in #Harlesden and #KensalGreen. It is a hub and fantastic community meeting space on the high street.@MiliKPatel @JumboChan and I will be seeking an urgent meeting with the council to see how we can help. https://t.co/zhso8iCsi3
— Cllr Matt Kelcher (@mattkelcher) November 2, 2023
The Harlesden and Kensal Green councillor told the Brent & Kilburn Times: “The Royal Oak is a Harlesden institution.
“It’s impressive façade has stood on our high street since the Victorian era and is as recognisable as our famous clock tower.
“Today it has become a vital community hub, not only offering a friendly environment for local patrons, but also hosting countless community events such as the Harlesden Mutual Aid awards.
“I will be working with the council and local community to do whatever I can to save it.”
It’s understood that the councillor hopes that the establishment remains as a public house in the future and believes that it should keep its 19th century architectural structure, whatever its future might hold.
One reader said on X: “This sucks. Used to do one of the best Sunday roasts in London.”
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