Popular NI businesses decide AGAINST reopening as lockdown is eased tomorrow — restrictions ‘too heavy to operate’ says one

In a statement, the owners of both Lavery’s bar and the Pavilion bar in Belfast said their decision to stay shut had been made “with the greatest regret”.

And the owners of the John Hewitt Bar, also in Belfast, said the decision to remain closed had been made with the “heaviest of hearts”.

From midnight tonight, restrictions that forced the closure of the hospitality industry and so-called ‘non-essential’ retail expire.

Bars that do not serve food are still not permitted to reopen under the relaxation of rules.

The News Letter understands restrictions on social distancing and other infection prevention measures have now been issued to hospitality businesses.

The owners of the John Hewitt Bar say the fresh restrictions are “just too heavy”.

In a statement, the ‘Lavery’s team’ said: “We have decided, with the greatest regret, that Lavery’s and the Pavilion Bar will remain closed for the rest of 2020. This has been an incredibly difficult decision to make and we are so sorry for any disappointment it causes. However we will reopen both bars as soon as it is possible.

“We would like to thank our amazing staff who always work tirelessly, and particularly during the period we were open from July to October. Your enthusiasm and willingness to work in trying conditions was inspirational and hugely appreciated. We’ve recently done a lot of work to make our outdoor spaces even more comfortable and we can’t wait to have you back, and to welcome our wonderful customers through the doors once again.

“We’d like to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas. Thank you for your incredible support during 2020. Here’s to 2021.”

The John Hewitt Bar said: “With the heaviest of hearts we have made the decision to remain closed for the remainder of 2020.

We fully understand that the restrictions put in place for hospitality are designed for public safety, and we fully respect them, but unfortunately the latest restrictions are just too heavy for us to operate.

“This time of year is the time we look forward to the most. We can’t believe we won’t be there to witness all the all the family and office parties, all the singing and the questionable dancing, and we may even miss those outrageous Christmas jumpers.

We would like to thank everyone who came out and supported us this year. We know that coming out and socialising was very different this year and we appreciate your cooperation.

“Finally, we would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas. There are brighter days ahead but until then we hope you enjoy this festive period with as much as possible.

“We look forward to welcoming you back in 2021.”