Plans 'unlikely' to save decaying 19th Century pub

The Tithebarn Pub in Preston is now due to be demolished

A 225-year-old former pub building will be demolished after councillors said revised plans to save it were unviable.

Preston City Council had intended to knock down The Tithebarn, which closed in 2016, in its entirety after it was deemed to be in a dangerous condition.

But the local authority's plan was paused after an assessment by Preserving Preston's Heritage (PPH) found part of the building could be saved and turned into a heritage centre.

The council said independent specialists had found the property's "decayed structure" meant it was "highly unlikely" that any of it could survive.

'Disappointing news'

"The property is far too dangerous and poses a threat to public safety, especially to our new neighbours the Vault, Preston's new youth zone and its young visitors," said Councillor Martyn Rawlinson.

"However, will do our very best to attempt to save some aspects of the facade or external wall that can be incorporated into future build designs for the site."

He added that it was hoped some of the building's materials could be salvaged and reused.

"It is very disappointing news that the Tithebarn Pub cannot be saved, even partially," said James Hull, member champion for heritage at Preston City Council.

"Our priority now has to be one of public safety and we will move swiftly with demolition as originally intended.

"We will continue discussions with PPH around future community uses of the plot."