'Build me' graffiti daubed on illegally demolished Punch Bowl Inn pub in Hurst Green as it still lies in ruins
An 18th century building illegally demolished four years ago still lies in ruins.
A sorry sight lies in place of the spot where the Punch Bowl Inn once stood proud and tall in Hurst Green, instead ‘Build me’ graffiti in red letters is now etched on its fallen bricks.
The pub was demolished without planning permission by owners Donelan Trading Limited in June 2021.
The owners had argued they were worried the building had become unsafe and they believed it had become worse over the years and had been broken into and targeted by arsonists.
A long running battle to see the 18th century building restored to its flory glory has since ensued, albeit at a slow pace, with the latest update being that Ribble Valley Borough Council has started legal proceedings in the High Court against the owners of the Grade II listed building.
An exasperated Coucillor Sue Bibby, a member of Ribble Valley Borough Council’s planning and development committee, previously informed the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “From the outset we have tried to work with the owners of the Punch Bowl to achieve a sensitive restoration of this landmark building to its former state.
“Regrettably, at every turn, they have frustrated our efforts to resolve this matter, despite being given plenty of time to remediate the situation.
“As there has been no attempt to break ground, we now have no alternative but to seek injunctive relief through the High Court.”
Ribble Valley Council have been approached for further developments on the matter.