(Images credit: Dawnvale via Twitter)
Nantwich restaurant and bar, Residence has ceased trading after a recent decline in trade and concerns over the impact of the coronavirus outbreak.
Owner Ben Rafferty posted on Facebook in the early hours of this morning (9th March) saying: “It is with sincere and heartfelt sadness that I have made the decision to cease trading with immediate effect.”
He explained: “It has been an epic journey the last 12+ yrs. But we are now closed so that we can seek advice as to the best course of action.”
Ben continued: “This weekend has seen a 50% reduction year on year on bookings which has exacerbated an already very difficult financial position.
“The outlook of the coronavirus may have a significant effect on the Nantwich’s Jazz Festival and this was pivotal in terms of improving our situation.”
Mr Rafferty concluded: “I am so very sorry to all the affected staff and customers and especially to the weddings and functions that we were honestly hoping we could fulfil.
“More details will be posted in the coming weeks on our website.”
Residence occupied a Georgian mansion house and is described on its social media pages as “the perfect venue for weddings, live entertainment, private dining and your own special celebrations.”
The venue underwent a £350,000 makeover in 2017 which saw the number of covers it was able to cater for double from 62 by utilising the site’s outdoor area.
Residence has employed more than 350 people since opening as a restaurant in 2007, and was highly regarded in Nantwich and further afield.
Liz Parkin described the venue as “a jewel in the Nantwich hospitality and entertainment scene,” commenting: “very sorry to hear this… thank you for all your support over the last 10 years.”
Stay tuned to So Cheshire for further updates.
