OWNERS of the Sir Richard Steele pub have said they have no plans to close the well-known watering hole, despite an online advert describing it as a “former London boozer".

Faucet Inn, which bought the pub in 2011, last week rejected claims that it was looking to use the site for housing. Company director Steve Cox told the New Journal: “The Steele’s is not closing.”

But the entire pub can be rented out by firms looking to host “pop-up” events, such as temporary restaurants. A description on the listing site appearhere.co.uk reads: “This former London boozer, by Belsize Park, is ready for some new ideas. The space is in a great working order and ready to be used… Other highlights include the fully-fitted kitchen and covered outside eating area, which make this space perfect for a restaurant concept.” It adds: “This area is home to the infamous Primrose Hill set. This particular pub was once a favourite of Noel Gallagher. You’ll find the locals are trendy, affluent and often famous.” 

Proposals to convert the pub’s upstairs function room into bedrooms and close the beer garden were thrown out by the Town Hall last year, with planning chiefs citing the loss of a “community asset” and damage to “Camden’s heritage”. Faucet Inn is appealing the decision. 

The firm also owns the Black Cap in Camden Town, where plans to build flats above the popular gay bar were rejected for the third time in February, and the Dartmouth Arms, in York Rise, Dartmouth Park, closed while building work is carried out.