- Protesters Attempt to Halt Debris Removal
- Workers Begin Cleanup and Salvage Efforts
- Community Demands Reconstruction of Iconic Pub
After the pub was destroyed by fire earlier this month, workers say they are beginning to “clean” and store bricks, but local activists are attempting to prevent lorries from entering or departing the area.
Protesters attempted to obstruct a truck that was removing debris from the location of the former Crooked House pub.
This month, a suspected arson attack destroyed the pub with the sloping walls and floor renowned as Britain’s “wonkiest” landmark.
But after equipment from a company specializing in demolition and waste management was transported to the site, activists began to engage in direct action.
Some protesters sat down on the lane leading to the demolished structure to watch the destruction.
Workers at the Himley site, located near Dudley in the West Midlands, told reporters they were commencing to “clean” and store bricks, as well as determining whether the rubble contains asbestos.
South Staffordshire Council said it’s talking to property owners about the construction.
Jane Baker, one of the protestors present, stated, “We’re here today, along with everyone else, because we care deeply about our heritage, history, and the Crooked House.
“She has always stood at the end of this alley. She is very important to us all. “What has occurred is wrong, and we must all take a stand.”
We simply want it rebuilt.
The 59-year-old added, “All we want is for her to return to where she was.” It has affected everyone, far and wide. We simply want it rebuilt by any means necessary.”
“As a precaution and to reassure the community,” Staffordshire Police attended the protest.
The police stated, “We recognize the intensity of local sentiment following the destruction of an important cultural landmark.”
Our investigation is ongoing and active. We continue to examine CCTV footage, forensic evidence, and witness statements as we attempt to piece together what led to the fire.”
