Some News Shopper readers have said they “can’t fathom where the money is coming from” after the announcement of a brand new Wetherspoons pub opening inside the O2 in Greenwich.
The venue will welcome customers in during February 2023 within the O2’s Entertainment District.
Building work has already begun on the aptly named The Stargazer which pays homage to Greenwich’s strong association with astronomy.
It will also reportedly create up to 70 jobs in the local area.
South east Londoners have had mixed opinions about the £3 million pub.
Many tagged their friends on Facebook and appeared excited to try the new venue, while others took the opportunity to drop some jokes but some had quite critical opinions of spoons as a brand as well as the new site.
Some comments highlighted some key points regarding the new boozer – here are the ones that stood out to us.
• “Bet the walk to the toilet will be epic”, “No doubt the bogs will be at the top of the dome”, “Wonder how many stairs to climb for the toilet in that one”, “I dread to think where the loos will be?”
Wetherspoons is notorious for its long trek upstairs to the loo and with this place announcing a 3,800 square-foot beer garden with views across the Thames and Canary Wharf, you can expect the toilet run to be a long one.
• “Explains why they are closing 32 pubs, including my local”, “I’d rather they kept the Bankers Draft open”, “I can’t fathom where the money for this is coming from after so many losses lately”,” So they’ve closed down loads of Wetherspoons in order to open just one costing three million”
Recently JD Wetherspoon put 32 of its pubs across England up for sale with five in south London. The chain said this was a “commercial” decision and “understands that customers and staff will be disappointed with it.”
Many News Shopper readers have expressed that they will miss their well-loved locals.
Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “We appreciate people have strong feelings about our pubs.
“Wetherspoon is always keen to open new sites and at the same time has to make decisions about existing pubs, which does, in some cases, meaning selling or closing them.”
• “If you like good cask ale can’t beat spoons. I am in a spoons now and it is £1.59 a pint. You can’t go wrong at these prices”, “I don’t like Wetherspoons but it will be cheaper for Londoners are pints dear”, “Thank god. I paid £40 for one sandwich and a beer during Christina Aguilera concert. I know Wetherspoon can do much better”, “You can’t beat a Wetherspoons cocktail”
People appear delighted at the opportunity for some more affordable food and drink from within the O2. This is ideal for a pre-concert meal or a cheeky after party.
Tim Martin, the chairman for Wetherspoon said: “We are delighted to be opening a pub at The O2.
“We believe it will prove popular with customers of all ages.
“The Stargazer will join a dynamic and varied mix of over 30 bars and restaurants in The O2’s Entertainment District.
“As well as its extensive leisure line-up which includes outlet shopping with over 60 brands at up to 70 per cent off RRP at Icon Outlet, TOCA Social, London’s largest cinema Cineworld and more, further adding to the destination’s family-friendly, day-come-night offering.”
Janine Constantin-Russell, managing director at the Entertainment District and Icon Outlet at the O2 said: “Like the O2, Wetherspoon is a household name.
“We’re absolutely thrilled that they are joining our diverse line-up of bars and restaurants.
“We are proud to celebrate both national and independent brands here at The O2, and look forward to The Stargazer opening in what will be an exceptionally strong year at the destination, with a fantastic line-up of events plus more dining, shopping, and leisure options than ever before.”
What are your thoughts on the new Wetherspoons? Do you agree with the points above? Let us know in the comments.
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