The landlord of an under-threat Rotherhithe pub is reminding customers he is open for business as usual – after hearing people say he is already closed.
The China Hall, in Lower Road, possibly faces closure after the freehold of the pub building was sold to developer Hamna Wakaf by owners Punch Tavern.
Landlords Michael and Linda Norris were told last year that their lease would not be renewed when it comes to an end on May 28.
They then received a letter from the new owner offering them a ten-year lease – but it was for £75,000 a year, which is almost double what the publicans pay now.
The landlords of 34 years successfully managed to get the pub listed as an asset of community value in February and have said they are willing to take the owner to court.
However, no court date has been set and Mr Norris is keen to let customers know that the pub is open for business as usual.