Fresh hope for future of Simpson’s Tavern as it secures ‘community value’ designation
It means that Simpson's Tavern, which was forced to close back in October amid a dispute with its landlord over rent arrears accumulated during the pandemic, cannot be sold without the landlord first providing the local community with the opportunity to bid for the building.
Chris Hayward, City Corporation policy chairman, said: “Simpson’s Tavern is a City institution frequented by generations of workers and residents who have enjoyed its good food, drink and convivial atmosphere.
“Its long history and deeply rooted status at the heart of the community means that it clearly meets the criteria for designation as an asset of community value, something which must now be taken into account in any decision over its future.”
Simpson's Tavern, which has sat on the same site since 1757 and claims to be 'London's oldest chophouse', announced in November that its landlord, the Bermuda-based Tavor Holdings, had changed the locks and placed the freehold up for sale, despite rent being paid to December this year.
In response, the restaurant launched a Crowdfunder campaign to raise £385,000 to generate revenue to ensure the survival of the restaurant, as well as support the team that has been displaced by the closure. So far the campaign has raised £113,701 from 2,754 supporters.
The application to designate Simpson’s as an asset of community value was approved unanimously by the City’s policy committee on Thursday (15 December).
