Popular Portsmouth pub announces its closure

The future of the Milton Arms and the Old Barn, in Milton Road, Milton is now hanging in the balance as owners Ei Group - formerly known as Enterprise Inns – search for a new tenant.

Publican Steve Hudson said: ‘There is nothing malicious behind our decision.

‘We wanted to invest in the pub for the long-term future but you cannot do that on a five-year lease.

‘We couldn’t come to an agreement so we have decided to hand the pub back to Enterprise.’

A statement that appeared on the Facebook pages of the Milton Arms and the Old Barn said: ‘It is with a heavy heart that we must announce one of the city’s most popular and well-respected independent music venues the Old Barn/Milton Arms will be closing its doors for the final time on April 16 due to a breakdown in negotiations with Enterprise Inns.

‘We wish to thank the community of customers, ravers, DJs, bands, promoters, staff and cinema goers who have helped put on some of the best underground events this city has ever seen.

‘Our final event is the April 16 until then there is plenty of time to celebrate the venue as we have a full line up of events to give the Old Barn/Milton Arms the send off it deserves!’

A spokesperson from Ei Publican Partnerships said: ‘We can confirm, the publicans at the Milton Arms, have informed us of their decision to leave the site.

‘We’re currently working hard to find a new tenant and want to reassure regulars that the pub will very much remain a hub for the local community.’

For more about taking over the pub, go to eipublicanpartnerships.com/ or call 03333 200036