MPs have called for answers following the shock demolition of iconic Himley pub The Crooked House just two days after it was gutted by fire.
Sir Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, says he’s written to Staffordshire Police and South Staffordshire Council about the loss of the historic building and he said “whoever destroyed it has got so much to answer for”.
Meanwhile, Dudley North MP Marco Longhi has questioned why police did not intervene in the demolition given the investigation into Saturday’s blaze was ongoing.
In a letter to Chief Constable Chris Noble, of Staffordshire Police, Mr Longhi questioned whether police were notified of the demolition, which occurred on Monday.
It followed a severe fire on Saturday evening which caused extensive damage to the quirky 18th-century property.
In his letter, Mr Longhi said: “The lack of information being provided to the public has raised animosity amongst the local community in relation to the investigation.
“As an MP even I am not encouraged by the way matters were dealt with by the relevant authorities.”
He said demolition of the empty pub so soon after the fire “raises strong questions” and he added: “If the police are investigating the fire incident, then why would the site be demolished whilst the police are conducting their enquiries, which may possibly require a forensic examination to gather evidence?”
Up to 30 firefighters tackled the blaze at the much-loved former pub, which was later razed to the ground, with just rubble left in its place.
South Staffordshire Council said on Tuesday that it was exploring whether the demolition constituted a law breach and confirmed it had not agreed to “the demolition of the whole structure”, nor deemed it necessary.
Sir Gavin Williamson, whose constituency includes the famed Crooked House site, said he has written to the council and police to be kept informed on the saga and he told the News: “I think it’s really important that we get to the bottom of exactly what’s occurred. I’ve asked South Staffordshire Council to look at this.
“While I accept it wasn’t a listed building there were people who were wanting to see that building listed, it was such an iconic and important building for the local community.
“It’s such a fascinating building, a true unique one-off.
“Whoever destroyed it has got so much to answer for because it was so treasured by so many members of the local community.”
He added: “We need to know what caused this fire. Was it an accident or has there been a situation of arson? If it is arson, I very much hope whoever caused this is brought to justice.”
Staffordshire Police has said its investigation is continuing and that it is looking at “all of the available evidence” into the cause of the blaze, which has not yet been established.
The force has been approached for comment about Mr Longhi’s letter and Sir Gavin’s comments.
Meanwhile, the Health and Safety Executive said it was aware of the concerns raised about the site and a spokesperson added: “We are liaising with South Staffordshire Council to understand if there is a role for us.”
Anyone with information or video footage that could help the police investigation is urged to contact officers on 101, quoting incident 761 of August 5, or via Live Chat on the force website, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here