Long closed pub could have a future 

It was bought by government in 2007 

A long closed landmark pub has been handed a lifeline. 

The Quarterbridge, which never reopened after the Covid lockdowns, is owned by the government and has long been earmarked for development. 

However, with little being done on previously pitched proposals for a new roundabout or blue light hub, the government has opened the door on reopening its doors. 

Despite a lack of action, which has led to complaints about the state of the building given its prominent location both for the TT Course and arterial route into the capital, a government spokesperson says it ‘remains a strategic asset’.

They added: “Work is planned to improve the condition of the property and, following that work, to invite expressions of interest from parties wishing to enter into a commercial lease for the premises.”

Speaking at a Tynwald committee, Infrastructure Minister Tim Crookall referenced how the government bought the pub and surrounding land back in 2007 for infrastructure improvements. 

He told the committee that the plans ‘get discussed every now and then’ but that he was ‘not sure whether it’ll ever happen or not’. 

He added that the pub ‘needs a lot of work doing on it, but actually it’s just sitting there doing nothing at the moment’.