Pubs, guest houses and eateries in Rhuthun/Ruthin now have nine months before Wetherspoon's is to open. The perceived wisdom is that Wetherspoon's is a-comin' in January 2012 to the Castle Hotel. No one seems sure quite yet when the Castle Hotel refurbishment will start, though this might well last a good six months. The sooner the better seems to be the common view.Yes, January's an odd date to open a pub. It couldn't be worse for the Christmas & New Year trade. Perhaps the Picture House might be more viable had it managed November rather than January. Or perhaps not. Still, J D Wetherspoon has considerable resources up its collective sleeves. It's unlikely to worry unduly.
Nine months gives existing traders an opportunity to sharpen their collective wits. Existing taverns will be hit. And, since Wetherspoon's will open a Wetherlodge, a modest hotel, so will bed & breakfasts and guest houses. Actually, my guess is that Stephanie's Anchor will be hardest hit. A possible case of self-destruction, as the Castle was once owned by her.
It's possible that the pubs around the Square will be able to feed off each other. If this is so, Wetherspoon's will be an asset. But let's not kid ourselves that all the pubs will survive. Landlords & tenants know this and they've made their fears known in the media. They may need to change and I suspect those who don't may also struggle.
Look no further than the Morning Star for an example of change. It's a smashing, intimidate venue, carefully refurbished and serving good food. It won this year's Quayle Award.
Is there room for more transformations like the Morning Star? Can we expect to see "ordinary" pubs in town changing their focus?
And that's without mentioning the cafés that may find an unexpected competitor.