Katie and Phil Witton announce the difficult decision to withdraw from the Brander Arms project.
The ambitious plans to revive the Brander Arms pub in Lossiemouth have come to an unexpected halt, as owners Katie and Phil Witton announced their decision to withdraw from the project. The couple, who also operate Foggies in Elgin, expressed their heartbreak in a recent Facebook post, revealing that a series of setbacks had ultimately forced them to abandon their vision for the establishment.
Challenges faced by the Wittons
Initially, the Wittons had envisioned a vibrant community hub, intending to rename the pub to Brume and Brander. However, despite their enthusiasm and investment of time, energy, and resources, they encountered numerous obstacles that hindered progress.
In their announcement, they cited significant issues with the building, including the lack of an electricity supply and difficulties in securing access for tradespeople. These challenges made it increasingly difficult to carry out the necessary renovations to open the pub.
Community reaction to the news
The local community had been eagerly anticipating the reopening of the Brander Arms, and the news of its abandonment was met with disappointment. Many residents took to social media to express their sadness over the announcement, with comments reflecting a shared sense of loss for what could have been a revitalized gathering place. One local remarked, “Such a sad announcement. Loads were looking forward to this place opening,” highlighting the community’s investment in the project.
Looking to the future
Despite the setback, Katie and Phil remain hopeful for the future. In their statement, they emphasized their determination to regroup and refocus, vowing to return stronger. “We’ve lost thousands of pounds in this process and are absolutely devastated — but we’re not done,” they stated, expressing gratitude to the tradespeople involved and the supportive local community. Their resilience and commitment to the area suggest that while this chapter may have closed, their journey in the hospitality industry is far from over.
