POLICE are hoping the problems which plagued a Winsford pub are gone for good.
The Denbigh on Cheviot Square was closed down 18 months ago following talks between police and brewery bosses after it was linked to reports of criminal activity.
Police feared drugs were being sold and believed criminals were running illegal enterprises from inside the pub.
But owners Admiral Taverns installed a new licensee and the pub has reopened as The Salty.
Sgt Ian Wood, of Winsford Community Action Team, said it is a case of so far, so good.
He said: “We asked for stringent conditions to be put in place because of previous problems.
“A CCTV security system covers all areas of the pub and the smoking area and car park outside.
“But there has been no problems whatsoever since the pub reopened - it’s going really well.
“We have always wanted the pub to be there and fully support it. It’s an estate pub and it’s there for the community.
“The trouble was that the pub had been taken over by the criminal element and that resulted in the need for the police to close it down.
“It’s taken a long time to reopen but now, together with an excellent new landlord, we will work to prevent the pub returning to the problem days.”
Winsford Town and Vale Royal Borough councillor Alan Bailey has been a regular i for years. He said: “It’s a lot better and it’s working well.
“It’s very well run and a lot of the old customers are returning. ”
