Boing, boing – Baggies celebrate as football institution saved from redevelopment
A Black Country footballing institution has been saved from potential redevelopment following a new deal.
The Hawthorns, a popular match day venue with generations of West Bromwich Albion supporters, has been acquired by new owners who have pledged to retain the venue as a pub so long as the community continues to support it.
The venue in Blackheath had been put up for sale at the most recent SDL Bigwood auction, held in of all places, the Holte Suite at bitter local rival, Aston Villa.
Described as “suitable for a variety of alternative uses subject to obtaining any appropriate planning permission”, it prompted suggestions that the site could be redeveloped.
Steven Hayer, who bought the club prior to the auction for an undisclosed sum, said he had acquired it as an investment.
He said: “The plan is to keep it as a local pub with the community’s help.
“If it can be successful, then that is how it will remain. But obviously, it has to make money to sustain itself.
“If not, then we will have to look at alternatives.”
Mr Hayer urged Baggies fans to keep using the pub, although he does not intend to run it himself.
“If there is anybody interested in taking the lease on then they are welcome to contact me,” he said.
Ian Tudor, national head of SDL Commercial Auctions, said: “The Hawthorns was one of a number of pubs in the auction and we are pleased it found a buyer.
“Hopefully it can now enjoy a good future, but, as the new owner has said, everyone in the local area needs to get behind it because that is the only way pubs can survive given the economic challenges facing the sector.”
