The owner of the Prince of Peckham pub is itching to re-open after the Prime Minister’s lockdown roadmap announcement, writes Simon Throssell…
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Monday evening that pubs and restaurants can open for outdoor purposes only from 12th April.
Clement Ogbonnaya, owner of the Prince of Peckham, said that it was ‘nice to know where everyone stands’ but hoped that the roadmap was ‘not one that is too soon’.
Mr Ogbonnaya has retained all eighteen of his furloughed staff at the pub on Clayton Road; a scheme that has been a ‘massive help’ in keeping the business going.
He has also benefited from positive relationships with the landlords and has been able to negotiate concessions on rent.
When asked what support he thought he would need ahead of re-opening, Clement said: “I don’t need much support other than let us get open and let us maximise our new opportunities.
“I feel like I have been well supported throughout all of this which might be a different experience to other places.
“The government could be a bit more relaxed with licensing measures and temporary event notices but right now, I just want to get cracking.”
And what will Clement’s first drink back be?
“The old Pat Butcher! A gin and tonic,” He said laughing.
If you run a pub or restaurant in Southwark let us know your plans editor@southwarknews.co.uk