Firbeck landlord aims to calm closure fears

Phil Rogers, landlord of the Black Lion Pub, Firbeck, said that he had received a number of enquiries about the pubs catering after it was revealed that the restaurant, kitchen area and accommodation block would make way for the development of two cottages on land adjacent to the pub.

Mr Rogers said: “Things will continue as they always have done. Food will continue to a be a large part of what we offer at the pub.”

The former landlord of Tickhill’s Millstone pub saw his plans for development of part of the Black Lion site passed by planners at Rotherham Town Hall on August 7.

He said that the removal of the restaurant — added to the village pub in the early 90s — was essential in order to ensure the business’ long-term viability.