An international storm has erupted and prompted sombre investigation after Britain’s historic so-called ‘wonkiest’ pub closed, burned down and was swiftly demolished.
Built in the 1830s, the Crooked House in Himley withstood and was suitably modified to accommodate its foundations having sunk 1.2 metres on one side.
After nearly two centuries, last week it was reported the country boozer had closed after failing to find a buyer.
Just days later, around 10:45pm on Saturday (5 August), fire crews were called to a raging blaze in the building. Although hampered by access, crews from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the fire. It was reported no-one was thought to have been inside, and there were no injuries.
As it happens, former owners Marston’s Brewery very recently confirmed the Crooked House had been bought by private developers for ‘alternative use’, and would no longer operate as a pub.
Police attended the scene of the fire and launched an enquiry with fire investigators to establish the cause.
Multiple reports emerged that mounds of dirt had been seen blocking the access road to the pub after the fire started, which had hindered emergency services. Many began questioning the timing of the blaze, with locals claiming it was started on purpose and one saying intruders had been seen inside, although the report stated they appeared to be “partying and playing music”.
On Monday South Staffordshire Council visited the site, meeting with the landowner’s representative to agree to a program of works.
But video soon emerged showing construction equipment move in within hours of authorities leaving, to completely demolish what was left of the pub.
Council stated it had not agreed to or required the demolition, describing how the situation after the fire was managed as “completely unacceptable” and contrary to instructions provided by its officers.
It was noted such a demolition of a building must be carried out in accordance with regulations and Council is now investigating potential breaches of the law, specifically both the Town and Country Planning Act and the Buildings Act.
“At no point did the council agree to the demolition of the whole structure, nor was this deemed necessary,” said a spokesperson.
The case has been referred to Council’s legal team, with a view to taking enforcement action.
Although not listed, the unusual pub was considered by many a heritage asset and important landmark of the area. West Midlands mayor, Andy Street, says it should be rebuilt “brick by brick” and a ban on any alternate future use imposed on the site.
Dudley North MP Marco Longhi broached the matter of forensic evidence being destroyed during an active police investigation, asking “How are they going to do this now?”
A previous petition attempting to save the building garnered over 15k signatures when it was listed for sale, with price guidance of £675,000 (AU$1.3 million).
A new petition has now begun, so far with 5,500 signatures, calling for a public inquiry “into the burning and destruction of this remarkable building”.
Generating dozens of headlines around the globe and by the minute in British tabloids, it has been revealed the buyers were ATE Farms Limited, owned by local couple Carly and Adam Taylor. Adam is also a shareholder and former director of company Himley Environmental, which happens to run a land fill site beside the pub.
Sources suggest the purchase was motivated by access to the land and came after disagreements between the firm and the brewery over a shared access road.
Police confirm no cause of the fire has yet been established.
