Shoebury Hotel to re-open under new management, confirmed

The Shoe Bar and Eatery, based inside the historic building, was closed last month by former managers Andy Dosser and Michelle Marrs following financial struggles.

Devastated residents later launched a petition pleading for the Shoebury Hotel to remain as a pub and restaurant after it shut.

The owner of the building, Nick Kenney, has now revealed that the site will remain as a bar and restaurant and new managers have been found.

Iconic - Shoebury Hotel (Image: File photo)

Nick said: “It is very exciting. It was with great sadness in early August this year when Andy gave me the news he would be closing at the end of the month due to financial difficulties.

“It is fair to say the hospitality industry has been struggling in recent years due to events which are out of our control. Whilst a shock, it came as no surprise the business would end so abruptly.

“Whilst many options have been considered, clearly there is a demand for a pub and restaurant business to continue.

“The signed petition speaks loud and clear, so as a result of the demand and wishes, I am pleased to announce a new business under new management is coming in the near future.”

Nick Kenney acquired the building in 2012 from a developer. At the time, the future of the Shoebury Hotel was also uncertain and according to Nick, the developers had plans to demolish for housing.

He stressed as a resident, and architect, with a passion for historic buildings, he felt the loss of such a landmark building, would be “to the detriment of the area”.

He added: “We have known for a little while but just wanted to get it firmed.

“We aren’t releasing the names of the new owners yet, but they are local to the area, they have a lot of knowledge in the industry locally too, and are really good people.

“The petition screamed to me that people still want it, which is great. We have listened to residents, and so I hope they will be there when re-open to support us. It is exciting.”