New UPB George & Dragon pub in Wanstead to open in January

The £1.3 million refurbishment of the pub by new owners Urban Pubs & Bars (UPB) will bring a new experience for the people of Wanstead.

Saving the pub is something to be celebrated. Pubs are closing nationwide, with the cost-of-living crisis accelerating this process. It is rare to save or open a new one.

Continuing the George legacy, which goes back to the 18th century, is very welcome.

The campaign to save the George played no small part in this achievement. It showed how much local people care for this iconic pub.

A petition signed by 3,589 people, showed the appetite for a place where people can eat and drink together but is also a community space. In a world where people seem to feel increasingly disconnected and isolated, this important function of pubs and other hospitality premises should not be underestimated.

Cllr Paul Donovan is pleased the former George pub has been saved The appetite for good, reasonably priced beer was emphasised in October with the great turnout for the Wanstead Beer Festival.

Attended by more than 700 people, the festival was almost drunk dry but not quite. Next year the organisers want to go one better, another step towards making Wanstead a beer capital.

So now, we wait for the George & Dragon to open. UPB has been impressed with the local support shown for the old pub. It shows people value and care for the place.

UPB has been keen to engage, meeting recently with Leyton and Wanstead MP Calvin Bailey and myself to explain their plans.

It all looks exciting with the new owner keen to become an active part of the Wanstead community. They have a specific commitment to sourcing locally, which fits well with the bigger vision for sustainable living. 

It is great that many of the staff from the George are being kept on, others have been redeployed by previous owners Wetherspoons. 

UPB expect to take on more staff, as its plans progress 

The new owners won't be able to charge the cheap Wetherspoons’ prices but they do recognise the need for variety and that not everyone can afford £6 plus pints.

But for now, it is a case of wait and see. The future looks bright.

What shouldn't be forgotten is the effort of so many to save the pub. Whilst Wetherspoons refused to listen, the new owners have.

The Wanstead community has once again come together and been heard. Now, just looking forward to that first pint in the George & Dragon.

• Paul Donovan is Labour councillor for Wanstead Village ward, Redbridge Council and a blogger (paulfdonovan.blogspot.com).