Work to start 'within three weeks' on fire-hit pub (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Work to start 'within three weeks' on fire-hit pub

12:12pm Tuesday 10th March 2009 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
• Comments(6)

Work to rebuild Saltaire’s historic Boathouse pub is due to start in three weeks – if planning consent is granted.

The pub’s owners Punch Taverns say approval is imminent and that they are ready to push ahead with the investment that will see the riverside pub, left derelict after two arson attacks, rise from the ashes.

The building was wrecked by a blaze in April last year and then hit by fire again a month later.

The decision by Punch Taverns to carry on with refurbishment plans at the Boathouse comes despite a cash crisis, which according to reports, has prompted the pub company, Britain’s biggest, to look at selling some of its most prized pubs as a way of reducing its £4.5 billion debts.

But a Punch Taverns spokesman said: “We are pleased to confirm that funds have been approved for refurbishment work to commence at the Boathouse. Planning consent is imminent and we have been consulting with local bodies.

“We anticipate that work will commence in the next three weeks.”

News that refurbishment work could soon begin has been welcomed by villagers and community leaders, and coincides with £4.6 million of improvement works starting on Roberts Park.

Eddie Lawlor, of Saltaire Village Society, said: “It’s positive news. The Boathouse is an essential part of the village’s landscape. It’s been an eyesore far too long since the fires and we’d love to see it back, refurbished and thriving.”

Councillor Martin Love (Green, Shipley) said: “It’ll be great if they can get it open in time for summer. I’ve seen the plans and it looks as though there’s going to be a bigger seating area, more benches and new gates – otherwise it won’t look that different.

“Work is already processing at Roberts Park. They’ve made a good start and now we’ve got the new Boathouse to look forward to.”

The Boathouse, built by Sir Titus Salt in 1871, was constructed as part of Roberts Park. A grand opening of the new-look park is planned for next Easter.

e-mail: kathie.griffiths@telegraphandargus.co.uk