The fate of a much-loved Southport pub hangs in the balance as Sefton Council prepares to decide whether or not to allow its demolition.
Plans to knock down the former Blundell Arms in Birkdale and replace it with housing go before the local authority's planning committee next week, but campaigner Jason McCormack is begging them to delay the decision so he can negotiate with the developer.
The proposals, submitted by a Mr Steve Gascoigne, would see eight houses built on the Upper Aughton Road site.
But efforts to save the pub, which was also formerly known as the Dell and closed down in 2016, have been ongoing for more than two years.
Earlier this year, a devastating fire ripped through the derelict premises. The blaze, on June 1, caused severe damage to the ground floor, first floor and roof space of the property.
Speaking to the Southport Visiter, Mr McCormack said: “We want to re-open the pub as a quiet pub with a dementia cafe, creating 12 full-time jobs and employing adults with learning disabilities providing access to employment for those often denied access to paid employment.
“It would be a safe space for vulnerable adults, families and the elderly in our community and by linking up with Sefton ’s Community Connectors we will seek to reduce loneliness and social isolation.
“I live in the shadow of the pub and we are unfazed by the damage done by the fire or the weather. We have access to grants and loans to make the Dell look great again, inside and out.
“We will start by opening the vaults, launching the dementia cafe, creating 12 full time jobs, employing adults with learning disabilities and we will be a quiet pub where everyone is welcome. Most of all, we will be good neighbours to our community.”
A petition against the demolition plans, with 109 signatures and endorsed by Cllr Iain Brodie-Browne, has been submitted to Sefton Council.
The main reason for objection is the loss of a popular public facility.
A further 43 individual letters of objection have also been received, 37 of which are from various roads within Southport along with one from Formby , one from Manchester and four from unnamed properties.
However, a petition in support of the proposal, with 30 signatories and endorsed by Cllr Tony Brough, has been submitted also.
In addition to this, two letters of support have been provided from properties on Clarence Road and Upper Aughton Road.
They say the new venture will improve the area and help with regeneration.
Sefton Council's planning committee meeting will take place at The Atkinson in Southport on Wednesday (September 25).
