A north-east community’s last remaining pub could soon open its doors to the public again.
The Kintore Arms Inn, built in 1855, was shut in July 2013 and has been closed ever since – despite being the town’s only watering hole.
In May, owners Cater Corporation announced plans to open a bar and restaurant in the B-listed building after previous proposals to convert the former hotel into a takeaway were widely opposed by the community.
Now, the owners are searching for a leaseholder for the building, with the possibility of splitting it into two separate businesses.
Last night, Kintore Community Council welcomed the move.
Chairman Brian Johnstone said: “It will be great to see it rented and leased as soon as possible.
“If it can be viable then I don’t care whatever form it takes – as one bar and restaurant, or two separate businesses.
“We want to see the bar reopened, there’s a demand in the town – the sooner its get taken on, the better.
“I’m pleased to see it on market and hopefully it can be taken up and deliver the service the community of Kintore deserves.”
Councillor Martin Ford, East Garioch ward, said the loss of the Inn was a real blow.
“The temporary closure of the Kintore Arms Inn has obviously been a loss to the community – people have missed the fact that there’s been no pub operating in the town, and it’s a welcome prospect of a re-opening in the future,” he said.
“The owner is clearly testing the market for options. They have got planning consent for dividing the property, and I think people just want to see it open at the end of #the day.
“There’s a demand for both a pub and restaurant in the town.”
Meanwhile, plans have also been lodged to convert the Sui Generis takeaway on the town’s Midmill Parade into a cafe and wine bar.
The bar would be situated next to the new Sainsbury’s Local supermarket, which is due to open next month.