AN Oldbury pub which was forced to shut when a man suffered serious head injuries is to hear whether it can reopen its doors.

The Phoenix on Martley Road closed after police asked Sandwell Council to undertake a licensing review following a fight outside the public house on October 24.  

Following the request councillors suspended the premises licence with immediate effect as an interim measure.

A full review will take place this coming week when the licensee can ask the council’s licensing committee to overturn its earlier decision.  

Under licensing laws the council must revisit its decision within 28 days and decide if the order remains in place, is modified or withdrawn.

Following a police appeal for information, 28-year-old Thomas Matthews from Halesowen was arrested and charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

He was remanded in custody at a virtual court hearing and was ordered to reappear before Wolverhampton Crown Court on Thursday November 26.

Councillors will discuss the review at a meeting tomorrow (Monday November 23).