This is one of a set of standard tactics used by owners who wish to close a pub and turn it into a private house or apartments. They use tactics like this and deliberately running the business down (for example by poor management and letting the buildings deteriorate) so that they can claim it is "unviable" when they go for planning permission. Driving the locals away by poor management, overpricing, etc, also means they are less likely to campaign to save the pub, have it listed as an ACV (asset of community value) etc. That said, once the club goes, maybe the area really won't support more than two pubs.
Bryan Betts ● 3759d