Historic pub 'left to rot', campaigners say

Campaigners are hoping to save the Unicorn Hotel which has been empty since 2007

A Grade II listed former pub has been "left to rot", campaigners have said.

The Unicorn Hotel in Market Place, Banbury, Oxfordshire, was a popular pub but has been empty for the past 13 years.

The building dates to the 17th Century and is thought to have been built about the time of the Civil War, when Banbury was under siege and many buildings were destroyed.

Cherwell District Councillor Dan Sames said the authority was "committed to protecting the building".

The Unicorn Hotel dates back to the 17th century

The bricks used in the building, which is included on the National Heritage list, are said to be from Banbury Castle.

In February, the council obtained a warrant after the public raised concerns over its condition and the current owner failed to respond to the council’s requests.

The council found the property to be “structurally sound and watertight” despite being out of use since 2007.

It added it was "committed to protecting the building” and had proposed placing the pub on Historic England's at risk register.

'Key' building

Facebook group Save The Unicorn Inn said it was concerned the building "has been left to rot" and would fall into disrepair if nothing was done.

The group, which has about 2,000 members, has been sharing its memories of the pub and posting old photographs.

Valerie Driscoll, who set up the group, wants the building to be restored.

"I don't mind how the pub is saved as long as they don't rip it down and demolish our history," she said.

"It would be nice to see the building restored as a pub but I wouldn't mind if they got permission for flats there, as long as it's looked after and protected."

Mr Sames said: “Banbury’s historic buildings are a key part of the town’s identity.

“We are committed to protecting and conserving these special pieces of the district’s heritage.

"We appreciate the public concern over the sad fate of this important local landmark and I hope our findings reassure anyone worried."

The council has not yet responded to a BBC request for more information about the next steps for the building.