A BASINGSTOKE pub will close at the end of next month, according to a Facebook post made by an employee at the pub.

The Beacon, in Kings Road in South Ham, is reportedly closing at the end of November.

According to a post made on Facebook, staff at The Beacon were suddenly told of the closure earlier this week, with the assistant manager at the pub, Dawn Hayward, confirming the closure in a Facebook comment.

Dawn said: “Hi All, I'm the assistant manager of the Beacon.

“Sadly, I can confirm staff today were informed that the pub will be closing its doors at the end of November. We have no reasons as to why. I'm sure you can appreciate this is incredibly difficult news for all so appreciate your understanding at this difficult time.”

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The pub has been sold to turn into flats, according to members of the community.

Reports in the community have suggested that the pub has been purchased by Sovereign Network Group (SNG) however, a spokesperson from SNG has confirmed that it has not purchased The Beacon.

A petition has since been started on change.org. The petition is calling on Greene King to ‘reconsider this decision and keep The Beacon open’.

Another petition has been organised by the Labour parliamentary candidate for Basingstoke, David Lawrence, with calls for Greene King to:

  • Stop plans to redevelop Greene King - these should be immediately put on hold.

  • Listen to local community needs.

  • Work with the council and local residents to ensure that the Beacon can continue to serve the local area.

A spokesperson for Greene King, the brewery that owns the Beacon, said: “We are in the process of conducting discussions with team members at the Beacon in Basingstoke, so will not be confirming any further details publicly at this stage."

The Gazette has contacted Greene King for comment.