Connolly's Irish Pub in Southport has announced it will close permanently from Monday, August 31, after bosses said the business "never fully recovered" from the impact of roadworks and now faces "heart-breaking" financial pressures.
Closure announced after two years
The pub, which opened on King Street in May 2024, was one of three venues in the region to host the BBC's Open Mic night events. The former Coronation pub had stood empty since the covid pandemic. It faced months of "disruptions and an extended closure" last year due to long-term roadworks in the Market Quarter area, which forced the venue to temporarily close as surrounding streets were pedestrianised.
The venue reopened in August 2025, with bosses posting on Facebook: "Since reopening our doors, we’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the love, laughter, and support that’s poured into Connolly’s." They thanked staff, live acts, the darts team, customers, and regulars, adding: "You’ve filled the pub with music, joy, and craic, and reminded us exactly why Connolly’s is so special."
Reasons for closure
In a social media post on August 12, a spokesman said: "It is with enormous sadness that we announce that Connolly’s Irish Pub and Catherine’s Bar will be closing permanently from Monday 31st August." The spokesman cited the "devastating impact" of being forced to close for approximately six months during the Sefton Council roadwork regeneration scheme around King Street and Market Street.
"Midweek footfall in this part of town is now almost non-existent, and the reality is that a pub of this size cannot survive on weekend trade alone," the spokesman said. They also noted "significant issues with the building which require substantial investment to resolve," adding: "With trade at its current level following the regeneration, the funds simply aren't available to carry out those works. We have reached the heart-breaking point where continuing is no longer financially viable."
No job losses and final weekend
The spokesman confirmed that no staff will lose their jobs as a result of the closure, as they have been relocated to another site. They expressed gratitude to customers and entertainers, saying: "Your support gave Connolly’s another 12 months when, without you, we may not have had them."
The pub will hold a final weekend of operation from Friday, August 28, to Sunday, August 30, inviting customers to "come and raise one final glass with us."
