Pub company Marston's has been urged to reveal its plans for the historic Mitre pub in Oxford.

Lincoln College in High Street closed The Mitre in 2019 so that a multi-million pound scheme to provide new student accommodation could take place.

Regulars thought the pub - one of the city's oldest - would reopen once work on the accommodation was complete in 2021 but it has never reopened.

Alex Spain, bursar of Lincoln College, said he was hopeful that the pub, one of the oldest in the city, would reopen.

Read again: The Mitre pub in Oxford is now an eyesore

He added: "I remain optimistic that the Mitre will be open again very soon."

Oxford Mail:

But Marston's, which has the lease, was unable to reveal when the pub might reopen.

A spokesman said: "We do not have any specific plans at this stage and are currently reviewing options."

Last month Dave Richardson, of the Oxford branch of real ale group CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), described the pub building as 'an eyesore' and said it was becoming increasingly dilapidated.

Now he has called for Marston's to explain in detail what its plans are for the pub.

Oxford Mail:

He added: "It's a very disappointing response - The Mitre is one of the city's most historic pubs and another summer could roll by without it being open.

"Marston's is now with Carlsberg - it's a major pub group - and would have the resources to invest in such a high-profile pub.

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"It's wrong to leave such a historic pub to fester in this way and Marston's should make clear its intentions.

"If Marston's is not going to reopen the pub then it should let Lincoln College deal with another company.

"At the moment, the pub building is an eyesore and it will only get worsee if nothing is done."

Mr Richardson added that The Mitre has been operating mainly as a dining pub.

Oxford Mail:

"It's a large dining pub in the High Street and should attract a lot of interest.

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"Marston's is a respected brewer and pub company - following the merger with Carlsberg it's priorities may have changed."

Oxford Mail:

When students are not staying in the new accommodation the rooms can be rented out by members of the public, according to the college's website.

The website says: "Following a three year renovation, the Turl Street Mitre reopened in 2021 and offers accommodation that combines modern comfort with the charm and character of 17th century Oxford.

"This is one of the most central and comfortable places to stay in Oxford with reasonable room rates.

"With six distinct room types, the Turl Street Mitre provides the perfect place to stay while you explore everything that Oxford has to offer. 

Oxford Mail:

We welcome last-minute bookings and offer reduced rates for firm bookings in advance."

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