The Rock Box on King William Street closed last week, and the property was returned to the authority of Blackburn with Darwen Council. Dylan Mitchell has been the manager since July 2023. He stated that the previous owners, Andy and Karen Joss, who ran the premises for four years, are in talks with the authorities to recover possession of the pub. Dylan stated, “After months of difficult trading, low takings, and an ever-increasing inability to pay bills, Blackburn Council repossessed the building this morning.”

Andy Joss and his wife Karen outside The Rock Box, on King William Street, Blackburn. (Image: NQ.) “Therefore, the Rock Box is currently closed. It’s possible that the previous owners, Andy and Karen, will be able to reopen the Rock Box soon. I really hope they do; losing another pub in Blackburn would be terrible. “I put my heart and soul into the Rock Box and ultimately failed, and I’m devastated.” The council stated that the property was “handed back to the council” last week, and that it was not the reason of the business’s closure. A spokeswoman stated that it is “always sad” when a firm closes.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, executive member for growth and development, stated, “It is not correct to imply that the council confiscated the premises, which led the firm to close. “We learn that the owner liquidated the business in December 2024 but continued to trade. Unfortunately, he was unable to continue the rental payments and returned the property to the municipality [last] week. “It’s always heartbreaking to see a business close. As a council, we are working hard to provide the greatest possible assistance for our town centres and businesses. “There is already strong interest from a potential new tenant in these buildings. We anticipate that the bar will reopen soon.”

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