Petition to save outdoor town centre bar amid council closure threat

Bier Huis, a pop-up outdoor bar at Warrington Market, was only opened by Hop Emporium in July – but the business says Warrington Borough Council wants it closed.

The ‘exciting’ venture was hailed as a welcome addition to the market’s ‘vibrant food and drink scene’ in a press release issued by the council in July.

It promised to bring an ‘authentic taste of Europe to the heart of Warrington’, offering an extensive selection of Belgian and German beers alongside non-alcoholic options.

Moreover, in the release, council cabinet member Cllr Laura Watson said: “I am delighted to see another new addition to Warrington Market with Hop Emporium’s new venture, Bier Huis.

“This new outdoor bar really complements the outstanding offer of food and drink venues at Cookhouse in the market.”

But a petition has been launched by Hop Emporium to save the venture, and at the time of writing, this had received 217 signatures in support.

If you would like to sign, visit change.org/p/save-the-bier-huis-the-hop-emporium

The petition reads: “We call on Warrington Borough Council to reconsider the proposed closure of Bier Huis.

A petition has been launched to save Bier Huis, run by Hop Emporium at Warrington Market

“This expansion, which has fully complied with all council regulations and represents a significant investment, plays a vital role in our community.

“It contributes to the economic, social, and cultural vibrancy that the council itself seeks to promote in its Warrington town centre masterplan and corporate strategy.

“The outdoor expansion of Bier Huis is more than just an extension of the business. It is a community hub that supports the local economy.

“The expansion adds unique value to the town centre by offering a selection of Belgian and German beers in an inviting outdoor setting, attracting both residents and visitors.

“It enhances social cohesion as a space where people come together, fostering a sense of community and contributing to the social fabric of Warrington.

“It also ensures fairness and transparency, and the decision to close a fully compliant outdoor expansion undermines the principles of fairness and transparency that the council has committed to uphold.

“The closure of Bier Huis would be a significant loss to Warrington’s town centre and contradicts the council’s own vision for a thriving, dynamic and inclusive urban environment.

“We urge Warrington Borough Council to reconsider the decision to close Bier Huis, recognise the expansion’s contribution to the local economy, culture and community, and ensure that future decisions regarding local businesses are consistent with the principles of fairness, transparency and support for local enterprise.”

A council spokesman said: “We value the contribution that Bier Huis at Hop Emporium is making to the vibrant and diverse food and drink offer in Time Square.

"We continue to work with the business over the future of a possible more permanent solution that is in keeping with the offer at the market.

"The current licensing application can be found on our website.”