High Hill Tap in Walthamstow to close this month

A popular brewery taproom in Walthamstow, known as High Hill Tap, will close at the end of this month. The decision comes after a long dispute with Waltham Forest Council over licensing issues. Hackney Brewery, which operates High Hill Tap, stated on social media that the council has refused to grant the necessary permissions to run the bar. The brewery has paid rent consistently for the last two years and has a valid license to operate. However, despite efforts to resolve the situation, they reached an impasse after nine months of communication. The brewery had entered a voluntary agreement last June to settle debts from the COVID-19 pandemic. They were required to create a new company to reapply for the taproom license. While the license was approved, the council's property department did not grant the required permission, leading to the impending closure. The brewery expressed disappointment over the situation and thanked the community for their support over the past four years. They encourage customers to visit before closing and to redeem any gift vouchers by March 30th. The taproom's closure highlights the ongoing struggles facing the hospitality industry. Many food and drink establishments have been facing challenges from rising costs and lower consumer spending, making it difficult for them to recover from the pandemic.