A pub in High Wycombe has closed its doors for good after the chain announced administration on Thursday, March 28.

The Chiltern Taps in Oxford Road, is part of RedCat pubs, a chain that was founded in 2021 and operates 114 sites nationwide.

The closure was announced amid major structural changes within the company and due to challenges facing the hospitality industry.

RedCat's statement revealed the closure is a part of "proactive steps", shutting down underperforming outlets or those that no longer suit the company's portfolio.

Although no official list has been announced, the Chiltern Taps is listed as permanently closed on Google. 

Local residents did, however, point to the already boarded-up Chiltern Taps site when passing by.

One resident said: "So sad to pass it all boarded up. I'm getting more worried by the day."

A former employee confirmed this, saying: "Got closed yesterday. Staff only found out yesterday morning.

"We’re heartbroken."

Out of the sites under threat, 10 are now under administration and the remaining 14 are scheduled for sale in the coming weeks.

Richard Lewis, chief executive officer of RedCat Pub Company, addressed the situation.

The Sun reported: "I am proud of RedCat and what has been achieved since inception back in 2021.

"It is never easy to say goodbye to some fabulous teams - I am grateful to each one of our employees."

"The Chiltern Taps website says: "Nick Holloway and Steve Absolom were appointed Joint Administrators of RedCat Leased Pubs Limited ("the Company") on 28 March 2024.

"The affairs, business and property of the Company are managed by the Joint Administrators. The Joint Administrators act as agents of the Company and contract without personal liability. 

"Nicholas Holloway and Stephen John Absolom are authorised to act as insolvency practitioners by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. We are bound by the Insolvency Code of Ethics."