'It's inevitable': Pub expert believes many Leeds pubs will close after lockdown

Steve Lovell put the finishing touches on his fifth edition of pubs and bars across Leeds in the style of the iconic tube map late last year.

However, he believes the coronavirus lockdown is likely to have a negative impact on the pub industry - with the situation being a 'new territory' for landlords.

Steve told the Yorkshire Evening Post that it would be 'very saddening' to see popular venues close due to financial pressures.

He said: "It's very difficult to even guess which and how many places will be forced to close due to this awful pandemic and the terrible long term effects it will bring.

"I'll be keeping a close eye on places on my map after the lock-down is lifted and it may be very saddening to have remove a larger number of places from it than I add next time around."

Steve, a call centre worker from Rothwell, makes the maps as a hobby.

He predicts a 'sudden surge' of people going out once restrictions are lifted, but a longer term slump due to a loss or reduction in the income of Leeds residents.

Steve added: " I think some places won't even know if they need to close straight away.

"Some might open, hoping for the best but then cave in.

"I expect a sudden celebratory surge of people going out when they can, but there may be longer term slump due to effects of people still being worried about social distancing and needing to spend less money due to lost or reduced income.

"Of course, I could be wrong and maybe people will go out even more than before, but it's inevitable that some places will close down permanently.

"I think some sorts of business and hospitality experts might have a better grasp on how this might pan out, but I think it's new territory for everyone involved."

Steve said he wished the best for people's jobs, businesses and health during the lockdown.

He said: "I'm greatly looking forward to going out drinking in pubs and bars again."