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The sudden and unexpected closure of landmark licensed premises Foley’s on the Mall in Lismore has caused widespread shock throughout the area. Photo: Ellen Lynch

The sudden and unexpected closure of landmark licensed premises Foley's on the Mall in Lismore has caused widespread shock throughout the area.

The premises closed without notice on Tuesday of last week. The well known pub and popular restaurant has been run in recent years by Michael Foley, nephew of the Foley brother and sister team that had operated it for many years. The historic premises was built in 1870 and has been in the ownership of the Foley family since 1880.

Mike Foley completely refurbished the premises after taking it over eight years ago, transforming it into a gastropub which was popular with locals and the many visitors to the heritage town. He made a significant investment in the summer in establishing a late night music bar for the over 25s known as Cafe del Castillo with DJs from top London clubs playing the venue.

There's been speculation locally that the premises may re-open at a later stage though it's far from certain despite the fact that they are understood to have had a number of Christmas bookings lined up. Staff are waiting for clarification on their situation.

"It's dreadful, a sign of the times maybe. I hate to see any business closing in the town," Mayor Jan Rotte said this week. "It's a very old, established building. It's been a great asset to the town. It's very sad to see. It's another blow to the town. As it is the town is one of the county's blackspots in terms of unemployment," he pointed out.

"It's a huge blow," another local said. The town once had 17 pubs, he explained, but that's down to four now and the hotel. "It's a serious loss," he said, echoing the feeling locally.

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