Manbar, the iconic independent gay bar located on the historic site of 79 Charing Cross Road, ceased to trade today.
THE VENUE struggled with severe financial problems after Westminster Council withdrew its entertainment licence in April 2014 following noise complaints from a resident, forcing the venue to cancel all its nights.
Takings fell by 50% and, despite the reinstatment of the entertainment licence in late May, the owner claims they never recovered from the council’s action.
Owner Chris Amos said: “I am extremely saddened to announce Manbar has closed down. Revenue from December and New Year was considerably less than we expected. We had been counting on good takings over the festive season to create a resurgence for Manbar but it never happened. I sincerely believe had we not had to spend the considerable amount of time and money fighting Westminster City Council last year to keep our entertainment licence, Manbar would still be open today.”
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