Initiative launched to help protect the region’s historic pubs
An initiative to protect historic and cherished pubs has seen five locals submitted for Grade II-listed status by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
This follows the destruction of the iconic Crooked House and now allows residents to submit the pubs they believe are of historical significance to the region.
“Britain’s wonkiest” pub was set alight on 5 August and its demolition two days after the blaze by new owners prompted criticism from the local community, as an investigation into the cause of the fire was ongoing.
The Mitre, Duke William, and The Queens Head, all in Stourbridge, Pretty Bricks, in Walsall, and Ye Old Leathern Bottel in Wednesbury, were nominated by the public as part of the List Your Local initiative which was launched last September by the WMCA in partnership with the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
A list of pubs have been sent to Historic England for recommendations to be listed. If agreed, the secretary of state for culture, media, and sport, will be asked for approval.
More pubs are due to be submitted for listed status in the next few weeks.
Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, and Chair of the WMCA said: “Six months on from the Crooked House tragedy, it’s a reminder to appreciate our precious cultural heritage – not least our local pubs. They are vital community assets deserving of protection and we’re working with CAMRA to do just that.
“That’s why I’m pleased we’re able to announce that we’re recommending several pubs for listed status. We’re lobbying the government to approve these pubs for listed status with a degree of urgency befitting of their importance to local people.”
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