Red Lion in Holywell closes following council dispute
Aside from during the Covid-19 pandemic, when such venues were forced to close for some time, the pub has served the community since around the mid-1700's.
But, there was shock and disappointment earlier this month when staff announced it would be closing for good last Sunday (July 27).
In a Facebook post, they said: "It's with great sadness to let you all know the Red Lion will be calling last orders for the final time this Sunday, July 27. Thank you to each and every customer that has come through our doors."
Punters took to that post to recall the 'good nights' they had shared there and to wish the team well.
When contacted by the Leader to ask why the pub was closing down, the team said they had been in a dispute with Flintshire Council over the upstairs property.
After the previous tenant had passed away suddenly, lease holder John Roberts claims the upstairs area of the pub was viewed as his 'second home' by the council.
And that, he claims, led to him being charged over £3,500 a month in business rates and council tax.
John told us: "This has been going on for the last three years by now, and it's been an absolute joke.
"I've asked someone from Flintshire Council to come out and have a look at the property upstairs, as we've had nobody living in it for years, but nobody has been out to see us to check we're telling the truth, instead they just want their money."
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John added: "How they can call it a second home I don't know, as it's a part of the pub. We stock a lot of stuff up there and we have had to go up there to fetch things all the time, from the freezer and that.
"But, I've decided I'm just not going to fight it any more to be honest. I'm not too upset about having to close, I'm more p****d off at the council for the way they've treated the whole situation."
In response to the claims made by Mr Roberts, David Barnes, Revenues and Procurement Manager for Flintshire Council, said: "Many public houses, including the Red Lion in Holywell, qualify for full or tapered small business rate relief and/or Retail, Leisure, and Hospitality Rate Relief. These schemes are designed to support small businesses.
"Public houses often have mixed use where the domestic part is typically subject to council tax and the non-domestic part is subject to business rates.
"The council is unable to comment on the specific circumstances of this case, as it involves individual's council tax details that are subject to data protection and confidentiality requirements.
"However, the council will always work constructively with individuals and businesses to assist and support where possible, and we would urge the taxpayer to contact the council on 01352 704848'.
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