‘Change is needed’: Manchester pub responds as new rebrand divides opinion amongst locals

A Manchester pub which has taken over a historical venue in the city centre by giving it a major revamp has responded after locals said it looked ‘dystopian’.

Earlier this year, it was announced that the team behind Ancoats pub the Crown & Kettle and arts venue Sidney & Matilda in Sheffield had taken over the former Mother Mac’s premises in Back Piccadilly in a bid to turn it back into a popular pub.

The pub building - which has served as a public house since as far back as the 1870s - has remained vacant and up for sale since Mother Mac’s closed the doors towards the end of 2022. It was revealed that the new owners had decided to rename the venue The Rat & Pigeon.

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As the Rat & Pigeon gears up to open ahead of the start of the Euro’s in 2024, locals passing the area have been quick to spot the building's traditional exterior has been swapped for a darker look. Comments on social media have ranged from those comparing it to a dystopian dungeon to others who think it will stand out amongst the city centre’s other drinking holes.

Referring to the Fort William dungeon, where the Nawab of Bengal notoriously held British prisoners of war in 1756, one person remarked: "Sorry but I think it looks like the Black Hole of Calcutta!” Another more favourable review said: “Love the look of the building.”

Another remarked: “what’s with all the dystopian dark grey ****”, whilst another said: “Looks like a London pub.” Another said: “Good paint job. But it looks very sinister. Do the Munsters drink there?” One positive post added: “Needed a refurb desperately, looks good to me.” Another said: “Think it looks good.”

Other people also took the opportunity