Residents in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, a sophisticated London commuter town, have expressed their dissatisfaction with the plans to open a new £3.5 million Wetherspoons on the high street. The locals argue that their town is too upscale for a budget-friendly pub like Wetherspoons, fearing that it would ruin the aesthetic of their home.
Marlow is known for its upscale drinking spots, such as Tom Kerridge’s Hand and Flowers gastropub and Atul Kochhar’s establishments along the River Thames. The addition of Tim Martin’s Wetherspoons, specifically the Grand Assembly pub set to open until 1 am on weekends, has sparked outrage among residents. They believe that the bright lights and signage proposed for the pub would be more fitting for a place like Piccadilly Circus, not their refined town.
Michael New, a local residing near the proposed site, described the signage as “gross” and expressed concerns about the impact it would have on the surrounding streets. He believes that approving this pub could lead to similar applications for other premises in the area, potentially destroying the character of Marlow. Another resident echoed these sentiments, stating that the proposed signage is more suitable for a bustling city centre, not a conservation area like Marlow.
The building where the new Wetherspoons will be located has a rich history, dating back to the 1800s when it was used as an ironmongers. Over the years, it housed various retail outlets, including an Iceland supermarket and M&Co. Wetherspoons acquired the site in March 2022, planning to pay homage to its past with a mix of Victoria-era decor and modern industrial elements. The pub will also feature references to author Mary Shelley, who lived nearby during her lifetime.
Grand Assembly manager Rachel Turner expressed excitement about welcoming customers to the new pub, believing it will enhance Marlow’s social scene. Despite the backlash from residents, the Wetherspoons team is confident that the Grand Assembly will be a valuable addition to the town.
In a related development, people have also voiced their shock at the £19 price tag for a Full English breakfast at Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant. The high cost of this traditional dish has raised eyebrows among diners, highlighting the ongoing debate around pricing and quality in the restaurant industry.
