Anticipation is building for the opening of the newest addition to Marlow’s hospitality scene – discount pub chain Wetherspoons. But when will locals be able to get their hands on a pint for under £5?

Building work to transform 3 Market Square, the former home of M&Co, into The Grand Assembly kicked off in the spring, with a sign offering locals a sneak peek at its interior and promising a September opening appearing amid the scaffolding back in May.

As autumn draws closer, the Free Press can confirm that a more specific date of Saturday, September 24, has been announced as the beginning of Spoons’ residence in the town – with operators likely hoping to profit from a bit of late summer sunshine and boost custom for its newly-constructed beer garden.

News of the venue’s arrival in Marlow divided opinion after it was confirmed back in 2022, with some heralding it as “an affordable restaurant for local low-income people” and others suggesting that it would tarnish the Thames-side town’s “posh” reputation.

Buckinghamshire Council were of the view that it would “benefit the vitality and viability” of central Marlow when they approved the plans, however, and the new boozer is expected to create 50 to 60 full and part-time jobs.