THE FUTURE of an iconic Yate pub has been revealed after it had been closed for more than two years. 

The White Lion in Church Road will reopen soon as an Italian restaurant with scaffolding in place as work begins.

The White Lion had closed in December 2020. 

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Councillor Ben Nutland, who represents Yate North on South Gloucestershire Council, has welcomed the news. 

“I am delighted that the White Lion will be reopening and the new operators joining Yate’s business community,” he said.

“The White Lion is a historic local landmark and the opportunity to bring it back into use as a hospitality venue is an exciting prospect for local residents.”

Yate MP Luke Hall said he was pleased this was positive news for the community. 

"As a local man I’m pleased to see this historic venue in Yate saved," said Mr Hall. 

"This is really positive news for the community, and a great opportunity for a new business to establish itself in our community and bring jobs to the area. 

"I wish the team a very successful future in their exciting new venture and hope it gets plenty of local support. 

"I look forward to hearing more about their plans for the future. "

Last May the Gazette reported that the pub had been sold for almost three quarters of a million pounds.

Dating back to the late 17th century, the pub has been hugely extended over the years.

The Gazette has tried to get in touch with the owner.