Twenty, the recently-opened venue at 20 Smithdown Place in Liverpool, has issued a statement confirming it will reopen later this month after a temporary closure. The venue, which opened on May 16, features a coffee shop, wine bar, floristry, and small plates concept in the former TSB bank building immortalised in The Beatles’ Penny Lane lyrics.
Closure and Transition
News of the closure emerged around Father’s Day weekend, prompting the ECHO to contact the owners multiple times since June 23. Founders Laura McCumiskey and Anna Forster opened twenty on May 16 after 12 months of renovation. The building, which has stood on the South Liverpool high street for over 90 years, had generated significant interest, with twenty inviting the public to share memories ahead of launch.
In a statement to the ECHO, twenty confirmed that Anna Forster is stepping back from her operational role to focus on her existing business, Mary Mary Florals. Laura McCumiskey will continue to lead day-to-day management. The statement read: “Twenty confirms that Anna is stepping back from her operational role to focus on Mary Mary Florals. Laura will continue to lead the day to day management of Twenty.”
Planned Closure Extended
The closure was initially planned for scheduled building works, maintenance, staff training, and operational checks ahead of the main summer trading period. However, the transition of day-to-day management took longer than expected, extending the closure. The statement apologised: “We sincerely apologise for any frustration and disappointment experienced as a result of this.”
Anna Forster will step down from her board position following completion of agreed arrangements. The statement thanked Anna for her contribution, as well as staff, customers, and suppliers for their patience. Twenty is expected to reopen later this month, with a reopening date to be confirmed shortly.
