Wapentake: Popular bar and restaurant in Leeds to stay open after previously announcing closure

The company announced last week that it would be closing its doors for good on Sunday, June 23.

In a statement posted on Facebook on Monday, however the business said: “Earlier this week we announced our closure with an extremely heavy heart, but we have some good news. Despite the recent hardships and the dramatic collapse of a nearby shop front, our Little Piece Of Yorkshire will be staying open. We survive.”

“We are thrilled to share that thanks to the support of our incredible community and the dedicated efforts of Ignition Pub Management, which spearheaded the renaissance of Kirkgate — Leeds’ oldest street — we will continue to serve you all.”

Ignition Pub Management is part of the Manchester-based Inglenook Group.

The firm’s CEO said: “As a local lad, I am proud to be part of the revival of this well-loved pub.

“It is so important that we re-energise our towns and cities and keep investment moving forward. Please join us in celebrating the re-opening of Wapentake.”

Wapentake had previously said it was “devastated” to be announcing its closure, adding that the current economic climate and building works taking place on Kirkgate had led the business to “fall on hard times”.

Construction work has been underway towards the top end of the street since the collapse of a shop front earlier this year.

In its statement on the re-opening of the venue, Wapentake added: “I also just want to take this opportunity to thank all of the staff for all of their hard work, they’ve been absolutely tremendous. And also a big thank you to all you lovely folk out there who’ve come down to support us.

“Another shout out to our lovely neighbours on Kirkgate for the kind words and support. we can’t stress this enough, support local independents where you can. Not just us but our whole community on Kirkgate”