In August, 2001, Becton sold parts of the Espy and its operations, while
retaining control of the Espy Kitchen, the Bottle Shop, the beer garden and
storage, cooling and delivery areas. The sale, in fact a 200 year lease, resulted
in a new owner operating the Espy.
Live music and comedy continue; but this is a tenuous arrangement, as the
operator remains beholden to Becton for use of areas critical to its survival
(those mentioned above). In fact these areas are now being reclaimed by Becton,
putting a question mark over the immediate future of the hotel, even before
critical planning issues are resolved.
