Pubs giant Greene King has provided an update on The White Horse’s future after its operators gave notice they were ending their tenancy.

Chorleywood locals who currently run the pub have handed in their six months’ notice – citing the pandemic and saying “times have changed for the pub world”.

Greene King is already advertising for a replacement to “breathe new life into The White Horse”, with its website stating it would take a £29,175 investment to take over the site.

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The Watford Observer asked the company if it would be forced to close if a replacement wasn’t found in six months, and whether it could guarantee the pub would not shut permanently.

A Greene King spokesperson said: “We fully intend to keep The White Horse pub open as we know it is loved by the local community.

Watford Observer: The White Horse. Picture: Google Street ViewThe White Horse. Picture: Google Street View (Image: Google Street View)“Our search for a new partner is already underway and we are confident we will find a partner who shares our belief and enthusiasm for the future of this cherished local.”

Pressed to explicitly confirm it would not close temporarily or permanently, the spokesperson added: “We have no plans to sell or close The White Horse.”

The announcement on social media this week was met with sadness from patrons who said it was a shame and some added that they had fond memories of the pub.

The owners have reiterated that, though they have handed in their notice, they are still managing the pub and keeping it open during the six-month notice period.

Greene King run pub tenancies, where owners receive support and branding as part of tenancy agreements.

Watford Observer: The White Horse. Picture: Google Street ViewThe White Horse. Picture: Google Street View A pub tenancy involves a much smaller start-up cost for prospective pub landlords than starting the business as a freeholder.

These agreements generally last five years and can be extended afterwards, or tenants can even choose a different pub to manage with Greene King.

Greene King Business Development Manager said: “I would like the successful applicant to breathe new life into the White Horse, if you think you might fit the bill, please contact our recruitment team for more information.”

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