Future of The Roebuck pub in Bilsborrow uncertain amid lap-dancing venue rumours

The Roebuck pub in the village of Bilsborrow, near Garstang, has been at the centre of local speculation after rumours emerged claiming the venue could be transformed into a lap-dancing club named ‘Rural 10s Strip Club’. The premises, part of the Chef and Brewer chain and owned by brewery Greene King, ceased trading on April 25.

The pub’s closure has sparked uncertainty, particularly in light of recent developments nearby. Guy’s Thatched Hamlet, a long-established Italian restaurant in the area, was recently acquired by the James Places Group and is set to be redeveloped into a wedding venue called The Roundhouse. This has heightened local interest in the future use of other hospitality sites in the village.

Some residents have voiced concerns about the possibility of a lap-dancing bar opening in the village, with one commenting that Bilsborrow could become the "busiest village in Lancashire" if such a plan were approved.

A spokesperson for Greene King responded to the rumours, stating the company is "still in the process of exploring our options at the Roebuck, including a possible sale," but declined to comment on any specific proposals.

Currently, The Roebuck is listed for sale on property site Rightmove with an asking price of £900,000. Meanwhile, the Premier Inn located on the same site remains operational.

In the surrounding area, James Places Group has been working on refurbishing properties acquired alongside Guy’s Thatched Hamlet. Owd’ Nells Tavern, adjacent to Guy’s, has reopened following extensive renovations, with thatching work now completed. Renovations continue on the roof of Guy’s and on 60 hotel rooms at the site, though no completion date has been provided.

Greene King’s spokesman concluded: “We don’t have any further information to share at this stage.”