House of Commons · Westminster Hall
16 November 2023 · 3 other contributors · 7,252 words
Opened by Marco Longhi Con Dudley North
Responding minister: Simon Hoare
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Marco Longhi raised concerns about heritage pubs — [martin vickers in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
Mr Marco Longhi calls for local authorities to be required to hold and review annual registers of heritage pubs, develop their own risk register systems, and provide immediate temporary listing protections upon an application being made. He suggests restricting the sale of heritage pubs initially to buyers intending to continue running them as pubs for a period of 12 months.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Mr Marco Longhi is concerned about the decline of heritage pubs in the UK and highlights the case of The Crooked House pub as an example. He notes that many heritage pubs do not have listed protection, leading to issues such as rapid sales to developers who do not wish to maintain the building as a pub, often resulting in its demolition. Mr Longhi also mentions the challenges local authorities face in managing risk and protecting these buildings.
Jim Shannon congratulates the hon. Gentleman on raising the issue of heritage pubs and shares three examples from his constituency: The Auld House in Moneyreagh, Roma Hamill's in Newtownards which was rebuilt after being bombed by the IRA, and The Parlour, originally called The Old Cross, built in 1735.
Highlighted the lack of a clear definition for heritage pubs, noting that only a small number are afforded grade I listed status. Raised concerns about the vulnerability of local pubs to developers or vandalism despite laws in place to protect them. Cited cases of historic pubs destroyed by fire and emphasized the financial pressures on local authorities hindering robust enforcement. Acknowledged efforts to preserve iconic buildings through community campaigns, but expressed worry over derelict pubs losing historical significance due to fires and neglect. Discussed the steady decline in pub numbers since 2000, linking it to economic difficulties and increased costs of living. Advocated for a new community right to buy to prevent loss of local landmarks.
Pubs are central to communities, offering more than just drinks but also community services. Steve highlighted several heritage pubs in his constituency such as The Three Tuns, The Red Lion, The Malt Shovel, and The Crown and Treaty, emphasizing their historical significance. He expressed concern over the strain on these heritage pubs due to costs and highlighted the tragic closure of The Crooked House pub. He welcomed changes like planning laws but suggested more must be done to protect heritage pubs.
Government Response
Simon HoareThanked the Member for Dudley North and others for raising the issue of heritage pubs, noting their importance to communities. Discussed potential legislative changes and door is open for further conversations. Mentioned ongoing investigation regarding a tragedy involving a pub and expressed support for campaigners. Emphasized the existence of building preservation notices under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 and powers councils have in enforcing rebuilds after demolition without permission. Discussed tripartite discussions with Home Office and DCMS to address policy suggestions. Highlighted challenges in change of use applications for pubs and the need to balance market operations while considering community desires. Emphasized the importance of clear definitions and processes, particularly regarding assets of community value. Concluded by expressing readiness to help ensure strong protections for important community assets.