A major UK pub chain is set to close its Bolton town centre bar after months of speculation over its future.

Yates will be closing its Bradshawgate premises in early January 2025.

The Bolton News understands a meeting was held yesterday with the bar's staff.

A Stonegate Group, who own Yates, representative said: “Following a review of our property portfolio, we can confirm that Yates in Bolton will be closing its doors in early January 2025.

(Image: NQ) "This decision follows our landlord’s intention to sell the site.

"We are grateful to our loyal guests and dedicated staff for their support over the years. Colleagues at the site have been informed, and we are working closely with them to ensure they are supported during this time.

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"We are proud of the role Yates Bolton has played in the local community and will continue to serve our guests in our other Stonegate Group venues across the region.”

Yates has been a stop off on the social scene for generations of Boltonians enjoying a night out.

Leisure property specialists, Fleurets reported there was ‘high early interest’ in taking on the lease of the Grade II-listed Victorian detached premises on Bradshawgate over the summer.

More than a year ago, pub group Stonegate applied for planning permission to re-brand the pub under the Slug and Lettuce brand.

But in August marketing material released said ‘an experienced operator may feel that there is an opportunity to install their own brand into this unit, as it holds a central position within the town’.

Totalling 12,314 sq ft, Yates is built over three floors, with the exterior finished in sandstone and polished granite.

Tim Martin, divisional director of Fleurets North West, said back in August: “We are advised that our client occupies the property on a leasehold agreement until July, 2045 and the current rent is £89,132.80 per annum."