ANOTHER pub has shut its doors in Portswood.

The Waggoners Arms, on Portswood Road, has become the second establishment in the area to close its doors within a matter of days.

Part of the building, which dated back to the early 19th century, was a post office before it became a pub.

When the Daily Echo visited the premises yesterday, a nearby builder said the owners had left.

It comes after the owner of Tramstop Bar & Kitchen, also on Portswood Road, ceased trading due to financial pressures and a fluctuating student trade.

The Echo attempted to contact the former owners but were unable to reach them for a comment.

Cllr John Savage, ward councillor for Portswood, said: “In my view, this has been coming for some time. According to local residents the landlord says he just can’t make a living anymore.

“It’s sad because it has a nice garden with two bars, but it might not have enough custom to make an ‘asset of community value’ viable.

“If we are to have any chance of keeping it open there needs to be some commitment or appetite from residents.”

He added: “Given the derelict building next door, there is a likelihood that the site will be redeveloped. So interested parties will have to get things rolling soon.”

Cllr Savage has asked those interested in trying to safeguard the premises to contact him.

Last month, residents campaigned to save the South Western Arms in St Denys. Following the appeal, the pub reopened.