PUNTERS have been left “devastated” after a beloved pub has announced it is set to close.
Serving revellers for 22 years, the venue will pour its last pint on March 29 with the owners revealing the “current economic climate” is to blame.
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The Smoggy Scholar used to be a thriving and upmarket sports bar in Middlesborough.
Formerly known as Square 1, the Corporation Street site is just one of many hospitality businesses forced to close its doors in recent months.
Making the announcement on social media, the owners wrote: “After over 22 years we must unfortunately announce the closure of The Smoggy Scholar previously Square 1, due to the current economic climate in the pub trade and the fact we are all getting old.
“It’s times to shout last orders and close the doors for the very last time.
“It has been a real pleasure for Frank (the owner)and Marcia (the Manager) and all staff present and past to serve you for all these years
“Our last formal open day will be Saturday 29 March for the Boro home game v Oxford, hope you can join us during that day and night to have a few final pints and reminisce over all the fantastic memories made over the years.
“We thank you for your custom over the years and we will forever treasure the memories, laughs, tears and friends made and lost. Cheers Frank & Marcia.”
Over 50 former customers have commented on the post to share their despair at the news.
One person put: “Best of luck in whatever comes next for you all. You will definitely be missed. Had some brilliant times so Thank You.”
Another wrote: “My Dad’s favourite pub. Will try to pop in before you close to say goodbye to the pub.
“Thank you for your service over the years. X”
Someone else said: “Really sad news as this is such a great pub.”
Even a former employee wrote: “Thank you for the opportunity you have both given me. I have been trained by the best bar managers in boro. Absolute shame to see this amazing pub close.
“I have made so many friends over the years of working in the smoggy and absolutely loved it!!!
“I hope you both enjoy your retirement!!”
Approximately six pubs shut their doors for good every week last year, leading to an estimated 4,500 job losses, according to the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).
The closures come amid pressure from higher borrowing costs and high energy bills for businesses, alongside a continued squeeze on household finances as mortgage and rent costs increase.
Pubs are set to come under further pressure when a raft of cost increases linked to the October Budget, such as higher National Insurance contributions (NIC), and an increase in the minimum wage, come into force in April.
Employers currently pay NICs for most workers earning more than £9,100 a year.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA, said: “The scale of these closures is completely avoidable because pubs are doing a brisk trade.
“Consumer demand is there, however, profits are being wiped out with sky high bills and pubs are facing yet more rates and costs come April.
“We’re right behind Labour’s mission to supercharge growth and can deliver this economic boost across the UK, but only if it is easier for pubs to keep their doors open.
“Government must urgently bring in meaningful business rates reform and phase in new employment costs so pubs can keep boosting the economy, supporting local jobs, and remaining at the heart of communities.”
The latest data means that the number of pubs in England and Wales dropped from 47,613 in 2019 to 45,345 in 2024, the BBPA said.
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
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