The campaign to save the George and Dragon garnered significant community support. Credit: John Lazenby/Shutterstock.

The George and Dragon pub in Wanstead, East London, UK, an establishment dating back to 1716, is scheduled for reopening by mid-January 2025.  

The pub faced an uncertain future and potential sale to property developers, but was supported by a local petition with 3,500 signatures and political backing.  Urban Pubs and Bars then stepped in to save the venue from permanent closure.

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In discussions with Councillor Paul Donovan and MP Calvin Bailey on 26 November 2024, Urban Pubs & Bars expressed their dedication to preserving historic venues.  

They saw the George and Dragon as an ideal addition to their portfolio, aligning with their values of enhancing local communities. 

The company has committed £1.3m ($1.654m) towards refurbishing the pub, ensuring it retains its traditional London charm.  

The pub presents a welcoming atmosphere and offers Sunday roasts and a variety of beers and quality food from London suppliers, aiming to make it a local staple once again. 

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The reopening creates 40 full-time and 20 part-time jobs, in addition to bringing back more than 12 former staff members. 

Local MP Calvin Bailey MBE contributed by writing letters of support to both outgoing operators Wetherspoons and the pub’s freeholders. 

Urban Pubs and Bars managing director Chris Hill said: “Saving The George and Dragon is exactly what Urban Pubs and Bars is about — celebrating London’s pub culture, supporting local communities and preserving historic venues. We’re incredibly proud to reopen this iconic site, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back. 

“The community’s dedication to saving The George and Dragon has been truly inspiring. We’re thrilled to not only preserve this historic pub but to celebrate its legacy with the people who fought so hard to keep it. We look forward to engaging further with the community, supporting local events, and building on the traditions of this remarkable venue.”