While some venues on Wearside have still not been able to reopen their doors due to the required social distancing, others reopened over the summer and were getting back on their feet only to be hit by the tightened local lockdown restrictions. Here’s some of the businesses which are currently closed – and how you can still support some of the independents until they can reopen.
5. Hanover Place, Deptford
The owners of this historic pub announced they had to close for the time being due to difficulties caused by the pandemic and lamented the ripple effect of the crisis on the hospitality industry. Landlord Alex Kirtley said: "It’s not just the pub: it’s the landlord, it’s the local butchers, it’s the fish quay, it’s the fruit and veg supplier, it’s delivery drivers, it’s beauticians because people aren’t having their nails done to go out, they aren’t buying a new outfit for a Saturday night from Aphrodite. It has a real knock on effect on employment in this city.” Photo: JPI Media
6. 808 Bar & Kitchen, St Thomas Street, city centre
808 Bar & Kitchen reopened in July with some really well thought-out social distancing measures in place and had a great response from customers. However, the latest rule against the mixing of households has had a massive impact and the independent business has had to temporarily close, saying the new tightened local lockdown measures make it "impossible to operate in a viable manner." It's hoped the closure will be for a short period and, in the meantime, you can support the venue by ordering from its delivery service when it's launched. Photo: JPI Media
7. Pizza Express, Dalton Park
Over the summer Pizza Express announced it was shutting 73 of its restaurants across the UK in a bid to stay afloat in the wake of the coronavirus shutdown. The chains affected in the North East include Dalton Park, Newcastle's Dean Street, Gosforth and Darlington. Photo: submitted
8. Hidden, Park Lane
Hidden in Park Lane is another site that's been unable to deliver its usual level of service due to local lockdown. It has temporarily closed but you can support the business by using its Hidden at Home drinks delivery service. Photo: submitted