Coventry is about to lose one of its Wetherspoon pubs. The Spon Gate, located in the Skydome complex, is set to close after JD Wetherspoon made what they’re calling a “commercial decision.”
The closure will leave just two Wetherspoon pubs in the city centre – The Earl of Mercia on High Street and The Flying Standard on Trinity Street. The City Arms in Earlsdon will also remain open, with no suggestion that it’s at risk.
Why Is It Closing?
A spokesperson for Wetherspoon’s, Eddie Gershon, confirmed the news:
“It is closing. It is a commercial decision taken by Wetherspoon. We thank all our staff and customers over the years.”
No closing date has been announced yet. It’s also unclear whether staff will face job losses or be moved to other Wetherspoon pubs in the city.
A Slice of Coventry History
The Spon Gate has been a fixture in Coventry’s nightlife since it opened in 2010. It’s named after one of the 12 gates that once formed part of Coventry’s medieval city wall.
The original Spon Gate stood on Spon Street, near St John’s Church. It was one of the few parts of the city wall still standing after Charles II ordered the walls to be demolished in 1662. The gate itself survived until 1771 before it was finally torn down.
The pub’s décor reflects this rich history, with photographs and drawings depicting medieval Coventry.
What’s Next?
It is set to close in May, Coventry locals still have time to raise a glass at The Spon Gate before it shuts its doors for good. But once it’s gone, Coventry’s Wetherspoon landscape will be looking a little smaller.
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