Crooked House Pub Owners Face Backlash Over Appeal Against Rebuilding Iconic Establishment
ATE Farms Ltd, the recent owners of the infamous Crooked House pub, are facing criticism for appealing against an enforcement order to reconstruct the iconic building. The pub, known for its unique tilt due to mining subsidence, was tragically destroyed in a devastating fire just nine days after being purchased by ATE Farms Ltd. The move to challenge the reconstruction order has sparked outrage among campaigners and pub preservation advocates.
Campaigners, including the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), have voiced strong opposition to the appeal, stating that it undermines efforts to protect and preserve historic pubs across the UK. CAMRA is calling for more stringent planning regulations and legal requirements to ensure the restoration of pubs like the Crooked House.
The Crooked House, situated near Dudley in the West Midlands, was a popular tourist attraction due to its distinctive lean, with one side of the building approximately 4ft lower than the other. Following the fire and the subsequent demolition in August 2023, ATE Farms Ltd, owned at the time by Carly Taylor, acquired the pub from Marston’s brewery for £675,000. The management of the pub is now overseen by Carly’s spouse, Adam Taylor.
ATE Farms Ltd’s decision to appeal the enforcement order issued by the South Staffordshire Council has stirred up discontent within the local community. The council had instructed ATE Farms Ltd to rebuild the Crooked House following its “unlawful demolition.” The upcoming hearing at South Staffordshire Council’s offices in Codsall on March 11 will determine the outcome of the appeal.
In response to the appeal, Gary Timmins, CAMRA’s pubs and clubs director, stated that holding ATE Farms Ltd accountable for the destruction of the pub is crucial. Timmins emphasised the importance of rebuilding the Crooked House as per the council’s order to uphold pub protection efforts and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The enforcement notice specifies the materials and timeline for the reconstruction of the Crooked House, with a three-year deadline set by the council. Additionally, Staffordshire Police have made arrests in connection with the fire, which is being treated as arson.
The community’s concerns about the future of the Crooked House reflect broader issues around the preservation of historic establishments and the enforcement of planning regulations. As the appeal process unfolds, the fate of the Crooked House remains uncertain, prompting calls for stricter measures to safeguard heritage pubs from similar fates.