The locks have been changed at a Chester city centre bar as the council has taken the premises back.

Assembly Bar on Watergate Street is back under the control of Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The independent cocktail and tapas bar opened at the site in May 2021, taking over the premises which had sat empty since at least 2017.

The council confirmed it has taken possession of the unit and is taking the "necessary steps" to secure and manage the property following its closure.

Notices left in the window of the unit said the tenant company, Borrasca Ltd, was dissolved in June 2026.

A spokesperson for the council said: "Cheshire West and Chester Council has taken possession of the former Assembly Bar premises on Watergate Street.

"As landlord, the council is taking the necessary steps to secure and manage the property following its closure.

"The council is considering the options for the building and is keen to see the premises brought back into active use at the earliest appropriate opportunity."

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A notice displayed in the bar's window, dated 28 October, states that council agents have retaken possession of the property under clause 9.1 of the lease.

The notice confirms that the lease has been brought to an end, also warning that any subsequent attempt to enter the premises could result in civil or criminal proceedings.

Assembly Bar has been approached for comment.