### Lincolnshire Pubs: Closures, Campaigns, and Fresh Starts Amid Financial Struggles
The Lincolnshire pub scene has experienced significant changes through 2023, with some establishments shutting down while others have undergone major renovations or re-openings. Financial burdens, particularly raised energy costs, as well as shifts in property ownership, have driven the tumultuous landscape in the local pub industry.
"The county is full of fantastic pubs, social clubs and taprooms, but it is highly likely that Lincolnshire will see many more closures in the near future. Unless the government acts to support pubs and pubgoers, the people of the East Midlands face the loss of their community spaces," said Nik Antona, the national chairman of the Campaign for Real Ales (CAMRA). He emphasised the dire situation, citing rising costs, reduced government aids, and tightened consumer budgets as a 'perfect storm' for the pub industry. To mitigate this, Antona urges governmental action such as reducing duties on draught beer and cider, promoting takeout sales, and extending business rate reliefs beyond 2024.
#### The White Hart in Lissington
The White Hart in Lissington was one of the first establishments to signal distress, with intentions to convert the pub into a private residence due to untenable running costs. The owner, Allison Redstone, expressed that the pub's initial success had waned. However, community action led by the Friends of the White Hart campaign group caused these plans to be scrapped. Despite this, the pub announced its permanent closure on January 19.
#### The Five Bells in Edenham
Another casualty, The Five Bells in Edenham, ceased operations after less than a year. A Facebook announcement on February 4 explained the decision was due to the owner's plans to sell or impose an unaffordable lease. The local community voiced distress, extending warm wishes to the departing owners.
#### The Hammer and Pincers in Wyberton Fen
Wyberton Fen's Hammer and Pincers also faced closure, only 22 days after a management change, citing several underlying reasons. Customers expressed shock at this sudden turn but had reason to celebrate when new landlords heralded the pub's reopening on August 17, just one month later.
#### The Fox and Hounds in North Hykeham
In North Hykeham, The Fox and Hounds had to shut its kitchen in late 2022 and then its bar. Fortunes turned with the promise of a new lease of life, and by the end of May, the venue delighted locals with an improved cellar, a variety of new drinks, and a revived kitchen.
#### The Tap and Tonic in Lincoln
Amidst the closures, Lincoln welcomed the arrival of the Tap and Tonic in early May. A sister to the Grantham original, the venue, set in a picturesque location, offers a blend of classic cocktails and homemade tapas, as expressed by owner Luke Adams in an application to the City of Lincoln Council.
The pub landscape in Lincolnshire reflects a broader struggle faced by hospitality venues across the UK, as they grapple with economic challenges and strive to serve their communities.