Re-opening Ludlow pub to focus on town's arts scene

Adam Tutt, the man behind The Chang Thai Bar and Restaurant in Ludlow, has taken over the once troubled pub which was closed at the end of last year after having its licence withdrawn following police concerns about behaviour.

Mr Tutt says he is aware of the trauma caused to neighbours in the past but is looking to the future by focussing on the local arts scene which includes hosting three weeks of events as part of the Ludlow Fringe Festival.

"The local residents were more than justified in feeling the way they did by what was happening here," said Mr Tutt.

"I can understand people are nervous but there is nothing wrong with the building.

"The pub could not have carried on the way it was. Pubs go through different cycles and this is just a different cycle."

Mr Tutt has moved his film and arts based concept from his 'Sitting Room' bar that was located over his Thai Box Takeaway in Upper Galdeford.

"We have moved the spirit of the place into the building," said Mr Tutt. "The Sitting Room concept is quite strong in the building generally."

In the past the pub had strong links with the Shakespeare performances at Ludlow Castle and old photos of the cast are prominently displayed.

"They are part of the town's history," said Mr Tutt. "If you are going to do something to a building you have got to respect its history but we have added our own stamp as well.

"We have not renovated the building, we have recreated it."

Mr Tutt hopes to establish a good relationship with the Ludlow Assembly Rooms just over the road from the pub in Mill Street.

"I am interested in supporting the Assembly Rooms it is a vital part of Ludlow," said Mr Tutt. "Hopefully we will be able to hold events in conjunction.

"But if anybody has any ideas for events we are more than happy to discuss them. We are open to suggestions.

"The pub will be about theatre, poetry, and book clubs, rather than just about music."