Six pubs have closed every week during the three Covid-19 lockdowns with premises demolished or converted into housing or shops. Figures released today showed 384 pubs have closed permanently during the national and tiered local restrictions over the past 14 months. The number of locals is down by one per cent from 40,886 to 40,502, according to research by consultants Altus Group. Robert Hayton, of Altus, said: 'Pubs have endured a torrid time during the pandemic but have proved remarkably resilient aided by government furloughs, grants, rates relief and cheap loans helping to keep the 'pilot light' on for their reopening.' Last week, the owner of The Smiths Arms in Castle Dene, County Durham, was refused permission to convert the pub into a residential dwelling because its use 'provides a much valued facility to the local community'.