CRAFT beer company BrewDog will not be moving into Chester's Northgate development as originally planned, according to the company's CEO.

The brewer had been one of the standout names set to join the city's major shopping and lifestyle project alongside the likes of Turtle Bay, Tapas Revolution, Cosy Club and The Florist and was to occupy a 3,000 sq. ft. space fronting Princess Street and Exchange Square.

However, following an exchange on LinkedIn yesterday (Tuesday, March 21), BrewDog co-founder James Watt has confirmed that the company will not be taking up the letting.

Responding to a comment from Tom Brownlee on LinkedIn in which he was posed the question: "can you please provide an update on whether your planned opening in Chester is going ahead?" Mr Watt replied: "Sadly, it is not."

The Scottish company has made a significant impact in the brewing industry since its launch in 2007, establishing over 100 bars across the globe.

At the time of its announcement as part of the Northgate development in January 2022, Cllr Richard Beacham, Cabinet Member for Housing, Regeneration and Growth said that Cheshire West and Cheshire Council had been "delighted" to secure "such a high-profile and innovative brand" saying that it would be a "fantastic asset" to the scheme.

It remains to be seen who will occupy the unit which was earmarked for BrewDog's arrival this autumn.

 

A Council spokesperson said: "We were disappointed to see this announcement by Brewdog on social media, despite our ongoing discussions with them about their contract with the Council to lease a unit at Northgate. However, we are continuing to explore opportunities for this unit whilst also ensuring that the Council’s interests are protected."