Harrogate bar decides to close again after weekend's controversial events

Harrogate's Blues Bar reopened for takeaways on Sunday without incident but has been put off by the general controversy.

The Blues Bar said the negative feedback to last weekend's events in the West Park had made it reconsider its position - even though its own partial reopening had caused no problems with the police or local authorities.

Talking to the Harrogate Advertiser, the Blues Bar said: "When food outlets are allowed to trade inside giving us back our toilet facilities we will begin to trade again. Toilets are a big problem when it comes to safety.

"We did have a lovely couple days catching up with regulars.

"When we saw the Coach and Horses and Three's A Crowd open for takeaway, it gave us a feeling of moving forward but in reality it’s too early.

"We had thought if they let a few bars get on with it then people wouldn’t all flock to one bar but there were still crowds on Sunday.

"Closing again seems the right thing to do for now."

Located on Montpellier Hill facing the West Park Stray, the Blues Bar had been planning to remain open for a takeaway service within the rules of social distancing.

But the general controversy which has exploded since the weekend has simply made the situation untenable.

The Blues Bar now says it will not be opening again until restaurants get the go-ahead in July - and when it is safe to reopen its toilets!

Harrogate licensee speaks about crowds outside West Park pubs and calls for 'safe environment'

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