Pizza chain bosses say new Ludlow restaurant will create 25 jobs
A national pizza chain hoping to open in Ludlow will create 25 jobs, bosses said today.
Pizza Express is planning to open its doors in the heart of the town, but has met with mixed views from residents who take pride in Ludlow's reputation for independent shops and local food.
However, bosses at the chain say its planned conversion of the former George Inn, now The Marches Bar and Kitchen, in Castle Square, will be sensitively done, and provide an employment boost.
A spokesman for Pizza Express said: "Castle Square is an exceptionally picturesque area and we're very excited about creating a beautiful design to complement the building and its immediate surroundings."
Andy Boddington, Shropshire councillor for Ludlow North, said while he had a fondness for the chain, it was "another intrusive national brand" coming to a town of independent traders.
He added that it was another step towards Ludlow becoming "nothing other than a clone shopping town with historic buildings attached."
