Lytham's Gusto restaurant confirms closure

Gusto, part of an 18-eaterie national chain, never reopened its doors after lockdown.

It closed on March 20, with the message to customers on social media: "We’re going into hibernation for now, but let us be very clear - we shall be back, and we will be ready to party with you in true Gusto style."

But the doors remained shut when hospitality businesses were allowed to reopen in July and Gusto management have now confirmed the closure is permanent, along with that of three other of their premises.

Gusto said in a statement: "It’s with a heavy heart that we announce the permanent closure of our restaurant in Lytham.

"Covid-19 has had a significant impact on our business, like many in the industry, and we’ve had to make the incredibly tough decision to close in Lytham in order to protect the future of Gusto.

"We can’t thank you enough for being members of our Gusto family, for choosing us to celebrate birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and so many other special occasions with us, which we hold dear to our hearts.

"We do hope that this isn’t goodbye and hope to welcome you in one of our other Gusto restaurants across the country soon."

The company has also announced the permanent closure of its restaurants in the Birmingham district of Mere Green, Leamington Spa and York.

Gusto opened its doors in Lytham in Grade II listed premises on Dicconson Terrace in April 2016 with management saying at the time: “Everyone has given us a legendary Lancashire welcome.

“We feel we are bringing something really new and really special to this beautiful town .”

More than £1m was invested in the 4,000sq ft 130-cover restaurant and bar, with dining for 40 on its outside terrace.

Gusto opened its first site in Cheshire’s Alderley Edge in 2005, and it promised to bring to Lytham "a real sparkly and aspirational vibe, with a classic and contemporary menu."

A spokesman for the Lytham Business Partnership said it was sad to see any premises close but that great encouragement could be taken from several openings of new businesses in the town in recent months, adding: "It is a 'healthy' high-street compared to a large number of other towns around the country."