Medieval site of pub may be made history
L12-1133 17/9/12 Exterior of The Norman King pub in Dunstable. wk 38 AOD JX
The Norman King pub in Dunstable – which was destroyed by fire last August – has been de-listed, meaning it can now be redevloped or even knocked down.
It was confirmed on Friday (September 14) that the building will lose its Grade II status by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
English Heritage spokesman Tony Calladine said: “Very sadly, we had to recommend de-listing because most of the pub was destroyed in a major fire last summer, which, together with a subsequent collapse, caused extensive and irrecoverable damage.
“When making a de-listing assessment, English Heritage can only take into account the extent to which the architectural and historic interest of the building survives and in this case there was too little left.
“Any planning proposals for the site would be made to Central Bedfordshire Council.
“A replacement building would need to respect the setting of the nearby listed buildings, and preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area.”
Facebook user Ben Burnell said: “I understand why it’s been done but that fact that some idiot burned down a piece of history is a disgrace.”
Fellow social media user Heather Harris said: “I dont understand why the Norrman King has sat in its current state for so long.”
The Gazette attempted to contact owner Martyn Murphy but had received no response at the time of going to press.
The pub was ravaged by fire just before midnight on August 9, 2011, when 50 people had to be evacuated from the premises.
Richard Waters, 43, was given seven-and-a-half years in prison after being found guilty of arson last month.
What are your views on the potential loss of an historic building? Tweet to @Dunstable_Rick.
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