Ribble Valley Council is taking legal action against the owners of the Punch Bowl Inn in Hurst Green, Lancashire, after the historic pub was unlawfully demolished by Donelan Trading Ltd. The council had previously issued a decision in June 2021 that was ignored by the owners, leading to the destruction of the Grade II-listed building.
Five individuals were fined a total of £70,000 for their involvement in the demolition. The council is now seeking an injunction to force Donelan Trading Ltd and its owners to adhere to a listed building enforcement notice. Despite being given until 2022 to rebuild the pub according to its original architectural design, the deadline was missed.
In March 2023, district judge Alexander Boyd ruled that the owners and contractor Percliff must pay fines and costs at Blackburn Magistrates’ Court. He stated that the company was fully aware that demolishing the building was a criminal act when they proceeded with the demolition.
The owners, Andrew Donelan, Nicola Donelan, and Rebecca Donelan, claimed in court that they were concerned about the safety of the structure, citing break-ins and arson attacks. However, Councillor Sue Bibby, chair of the council’s planning and development committee, expressed disappointment at the owners’ lack of cooperation in restoring the pub to its former glory.
She emphasized that the council had made numerous attempts to work with the owners to achieve a respectful restoration of the historic building. Despite being given ample time to address the situation, the owners continued to obstruct the process, leading the council to seek legal intervention through the High Court.
The Punch Bowl Inn holds significant historical value as an 18th Century pub, and its demolition has sparked outrage among locals and heritage preservationists. The legal battle between the council and the owners highlights the importance of protecting and preserving our architectural heritage for future generations to enjoy.
Preserving historic buildings not only maintains our cultural identity but also contributes to the local economy through tourism and heritage conservation efforts. The Punch Bowl Inn serves as a reminder of our past and the need to safeguard our architectural treasures from irreversible damage.
As the legal proceedings continue, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the restoration of the Punch Bowl Inn and work towards a solution that respects the building’s historical significance. The outcome of this case will set a precedent for future preservation efforts and underscore the importance of upholding our heritage for the benefit of present and future generations.
